Gresham police debut new room for witnesses, victims, children

The Gresham Police Department has debuted a new asset to create a more comfortable place for victim and witness interviews.

On Thursday, June 20, the department announced its improved interview room at the main station, 1333 N.W. Eastman Parkway. Before the same type of room was used for everything — including in-custody suspects and victims of a violent crime.

Now following the weeks-long renovation of a former office, people will have a more comfortable place during a difficult period of their life, with better seating, lighting, and toys/games for kids of all ages.

“Our existing facilities did not meet the needs of the community or the department,” said Police Chief Travis Gullberg. “We hope the new interview room will provide a welcoming and safe environment for witnesses, crime victims, and particularly children, who need to speak to a police officer.”

“That will, in turn, allow our officers and detectives to be more effective and successful in their work keeping the community safe,” he added.

The existing interview rooms will remain in use for suspect interviews or situations where multiple interviews must be conducted simultaneously.