The City of Columbia’s Office of Violence Prevention is working to build a safer, more connected community through collaboration with residents, local organizations, and public safety partners. In this video, we sit down with D’Markus Thomas-Brown a former chaplain for the Columbia Police Department, now serving in a leadership role, to discuss how his past experiences shaped his approach to violence prevention and what he’s most excited about moving forward. Hear how lived experiences, community insight, and a shared commitment are driving a long-term strategy for peace and resilience in Columbia, Missouri.