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Philly Police Hold Community Block Party, Hoping To Strengthen Community Bond

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- West Somerset Street is shut down. A block part drew a couple hundred people to the Fairhill neighborhood street.

There was a dunk tank and the opportunity to meet a Philadelphia Police K9 Officer.

25th District Police Captain Mike Cram told Eyewitness News that community relationships have never been more important. "These community groups are my friends. They're my friends at this point. We've been working together for so long. I trust them. I love, they're out here," Cram said.

The block party took a couple months to plan. Officers say they are working to strengthen ties in the neighborhoods they serve. It appears to be paying off.

"Out of the 24th and 25th Districts, you're going to find committed officers to serving this community," said Quetcy Lozada.

Community watch groups say there is no question this area is usually thriving in the heroin drug trade. Police come by, they scatter. As soon as the police are gone, they come right back.

"There's a lot of stress in this neighborhood with the crime and the drug problems. It's really not safe for kids to come out of their homes with the needles all over, we have a very robust heroin market here, so my cops and I put our heads together," Cram said.

Those who live here say the block party brought a few hours of peace. "This is important when the children and youth here together with the police. I think it's the best thing police can do with the children in this area," said Pastor Billy Cortez.

When the dancing ends and the hot dogs are gone, we're told the problems will surely return. It's hoped an event like this changes perception from both sides.

 

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