Thanks to the Sun-Times for bringing the Chicago Police Department’s latest lip-service to reform, its “positive interactions” program, to our attention. A majority of CPD employees should be assigned to neighborhood foot patrols, and a small number could be left to drive around, as available backup, if needed.
Officers on foot patrol will get to know the neighborhood and will be known by the neighborhood. The officers will learn who and where the bad actors are, and learn who and where the people are who are likely to need assistance. There is no other way to build trust, and to prevent crimes and tragedies — to serve and protect.
