Community Policing Program provides peace of mind

Posted 7/20/17

During his first-ever run for political office, Johnston Town Councilman Richard J. DelFino pledged to launch several high-priority programs that would have a direct impact on the citizens of …

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Community Policing Program provides peace of mind

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During his first-ever run for political office, Johnston Town Councilman Richard J. DelFino pledged to launch several high-priority programs that would have a direct impact on the citizens of District 1.

One in particular was a community policing initiative, a program that helps maintain a safe community as well as allowing residents to share their concerns directly with the Johnston Police Department.

It was the first such initiative of its kind in Johnston that last Thursday evening continued during an impressive meeting with residents at Simmons Village that was co-hosted by DelFino and Major Joseph P. Razza, the JPD’s Uniformed Patrol Commander who enlisted the support of Capt. Mark Vieria who heads the 4-to-12 midnight shift.

After several preliminary meetings with Mayor Joseph Polisena, the JPD and Picerne Properties, the program began over a year ago and as DelFino emphasized during the hour long session: “The program has been successful as tips have led to action and in some cases arrests.”

“We meet every couple of months with the JPD, residents and management of Simmons Village to discuss issues related to the health and safety of those that reside there,” DelFino explained of the program that Polisena endorsed during its outset. “Residents speak directly to the JPD about law enforcement concerns and in return the Police Department investigates complaints and/or works with management to resolve the issues.”

Last Thursday, Razza was armed with a comprehensive Crime Prevention sheet that informed residents how to report to police from identifying themselves to getting a description of suspects to dial 911.

“The longer you can stay on the line, the better,” Razza said. “Know your neighbors and report suspicious people and activity to us. The Johnston Police Department is committed to serving the public and looking forward to continuing to work with the community of Simmons Village.”

Razza did note that Simmons Village is a privately run property and that the police were there to educate the public and hopefully deter crimes.

One such example of the Community Policing has been the JPD patrolling the area multiple times each evening has been a pleasing site to many residents who participated in a successful question and answer segment of last Thursday’s meeting.

“We are committed to working with the residents here,” said Razza. “We are dedicated to taking a pro-active approach to policing in the community. We recognize that all issues that may arise within the community of Simmons village are quality of life concerns and we are committed to working with you, community leaders and management in order to mitigate all concerns.”

As Razza gave his closing remarks that included fielding several important queries about speeding in the Village and trespassers looking in apartment windows, DelFino reiterated that “Simmons Village is private property and this Community Policing program is a good business/government relationship putting safety first.”

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