City Officials, Police Hold Community Walk To Improve Neighborhood Relationships
By Kristen Johanson
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Philadelphia city officials and police officers held a community walk through West Philadelphia Thursday night.
District Attorney Seth Williams lead the group of 19th District police officers, and community groups, knocking on the doors of businesses and home owners.
"We have to constantly be vigilant to improve relations, to improve communication between the community and law enforcement," Williams says.
Police introduced themselves to residents and offered help along the way.
"The 19th district is very dynamic and unique," says Captain Joe Bologna. "Every section of this district has it's own specific community group or neighborhood association."
Members of the DA's office joined, offering assistance and answering questions about neighborhood concerns.
Atif Olberton, who owns Marvin's Barber Shop on 60th Street, welcomed the engagement:
"It's definitely important for relationships for the community and the police cause we need them. They have pretty good attitudes and character, and if they need anything from us, we'd be willing to help them as well."
Mohammed Bashar owns a shop on 60th Street and says the relationships with police have progressed:
"The past...2008/2009…was bad. It is going to be positive day by day, as they talk to people. And they are nice now. "
And he is hopeful it will continue in the same positive way.
