NEW ROCHELLE, NY (April 20) — In order to continue to build trust and foster better communication with the neighborhoods they serve, the New Rochelle Police Department now has two Community Engagement Officers. These officers will partner with residents, businesses and community leaders, clergy and youth organizations in targeted areas within the south and central beat zones.
The new CEOs will spend the majority of their time getting to know residents and business owners, and working with them to address areas of mutual concern and facilitate resolutions. Additionally, they will connect residents with other City agencies for assistance with issues that might not be police-related.
“Although these areas are smaller than a PACT beat officer normally covers, the fact that they are smaller will allow for more frequent community engagement- especially since the CEOs will be patrolling on foot or bike as well as in a police car,” noted Police Commissioner Robert Gazzola. “The aim is for the officers to be a constant, daily presence in their respective neighborhoods, developing more personal, social relationships. These interactions will enable them to police with the community, not to police the community.”
In addition to the Community Engagement Officers, patrol sector officers throughout the city have been developing- and will continue to enhance- community contacts by stopping during patrol, getting out of their cars and meeting residents where they are.
Police Officer Johnson will serve as Community Engagement Officer for the Lincoln Avenue area, from Coligni Avenue to North Avenue between Brook Street and Horton Avenue. Police Officer Hued will engage in the downtown, from LeCount to Echo Avenue including Huguenot, Union Street, Franklin Avenue, and Soundview Street.