Police departments nation-wide are increasing their commitment to community policing in hopes of reducing crime. It’s a strategy that involves developing relationships between neighborhoods and individual officers.
Brandon Dillard is one of nine officers in the community services unit. He says unlike other patrol officers, his job is aimed at getting long-term results.
"It's about relationships," he says, "and building them. Shaking hands, taking info. I follow up and follow up again, With complainants and with suspects. We make sure they get the resources they need, like United Way. Also, the City of Rockford human services and several services in Rockford."
Dillard says focusing on his patrol area, one of ten in the city, gives him access to the concerns of everyday people…and a chance to influence children through events like this summer’s Strong Neighborhoods block parties.
