Norwich - The Norwich NAACP branch honored the Norwich Police Department Thursday in recognition of National Police Week and the good working relationship between the two entities.

Police Chief Louis Fusaro and Officer Michael McKinney received plaques with their photographs and the police officer's prayer. Both are members of the NAACP, and McKinney works with city youth through the Juvenile Justice Board and the city school system. The department received a certificate of appreciation.

"I was quite honored and quite taken back by the whole thing," Fusaro said. "We have a great relationship with the NAACP, and I pride myself on that because we work at it. They are very active, and we communicate with them whenever issues come up… It's more than just a partnership with us. I consider (NAACP President) Jackie Owens a friend. If there are any issues, I call her or she calls me. It makes a difference in the community."

- Claire Bessette