As police departments nationwide grapple with the increasing demands of modern policing, one thing remains clear: prioritizing officer wellness is no longer optional; it’s essential. For Chief Kevin Lynch of the Bristol, Rhode Island Police Department, creating a culture of wellness has been a cornerstone of his leadership. Over the course of his tenure, Chief Lynch has implemented innovative programs to support his officers’ mental, physical, and emotional well-being.
Wellness Begins with Accessibility
When Chief Lynch introduced the Lexipol wellness app—Cordico to his department—he knew it would resonate with his officers, especially the younger generation. “The younger officers we’re hiring today live and breathe with a phone in their hand,” he explained. “Cordico is a fantastic way to reach them 24/7, whether they need mental health support, tools for better sleep, or fitness guidance.”
To encourage officers to engage with the app, Lynch even gamified things a bit, implementing an incentive program. “We buried treasures inside the app,” he said, referring to Easter eggs that officers could uncover by exploring its features. Officers who completed the program were rewarded with a day off every six months. “It incentivized them to spend time on the app, and in doing so, they learned all the tools it offered—not just crisis intervention, but resources for their overall well-being.”
The response from officers has been overwhelmingly positive. “Having a resource like this at their fingertips, anytime they need it, has made a world of difference,” said Lynch.
Enforcing Physical and Mental strength
Beyond digital tools, Chief Lynch has revitalized the department’s approach to physical wellness. He spearheaded the renovation of the department’s gym, turning a decades-old facility into a modern fitness center equipped with state-of-the-art commercial-grade equipment. Officers are also granted a one-hour wellness break during their shifts. “Whether they want to exercise, meditate, or just take a breather, this time is theirs to recharge,” said Lynch.
These initiatives have led to noticeable improvements in morale and overall health. “An officer who is healthy and enjoys coming to work is less likely to take sick leave or experience burnout,” Lynch noted. “It’s an investment that pays dividends, not just for the officers, but for the community they serve.”
Funding Wellness Is a Worthwhile Investment
For departments worried about funding wellness programs, Lynch offers practical advice. “We’ve utilized forfeiture money from narcotics and other crimes,” he explained. “Those funds are meant for law enforcement benefit, and what better benefit than investing in your personnel? Your people are your greatest asset.”
Lynch emphasizes that the investment is well worth it. “You can buy new cars and equipment, but if your officers aren’t healthy, the community suffers. Healthy officers perform better, build stronger relationships, and ultimately make the community safer.”
Lynch’s philosophy is simple but profound: “When you invest in your staff, you reap the rewards. A healthy department is a stronger department, and that benefits everyone—the officers, their families, and the community.”
Forging Ahead in Healthier Fashion
As Chief Lynch prepares for the next chapter of his career, he remains committed to expanding wellness programs across Rhode Island. Recently, the Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association hired a dedicated officer wellness coordinator to explore grant opportunities and bring tools like Cordico to every officer in the state. “My goal is for every department, no matter how small, to have access to these resources,” Lynch said. “Wellness isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a necessity.”
Chief Lynch’s leadership serves as an inspiring example of how police departments can make wellness a priority. By investing in their people, departments can create a culture of care, resilience, and excellence that benefits everyone they serve.
