UPDATE: The Philadelphia Police Department hosted a critical community forum at Epic Church in Roxborough on November 1, 2023, addressing pressing public safety concerns. With rising crime rates and community anxieties, this event aimed to foster direct dialogue between residents and police officials.
Community members filled the church to hear from Commissioner Kevin Bethel and his team of Deputy Commissioners, who took questions on various local issues, including the alarming rise in car thefts and the effectiveness of 911 response times. Bethel emphasized, “We are here to listen,” promising that actions will follow the discussions held.
Joining Bethel on the panel were notable figures including Captain James Kimrey and Deputy Commissioner Krista Dahl-Campbell, who addressed the audience’s concerns with transparency and urgency. Bethel and his team reassured attendees that they are working diligently to tackle community challenges.
A focal point of the evening was the surge in vehicle thefts, with Captain Kimrey revealing that police are increasing their presence in known “hot spots” like Bells Mill Road. “Speeding citations are up this year,” he noted, reflecting the department’s commitment to improving road safety in response to aggressive driving complaints.
Commissioner Bethel addressed the rise in stolen vehicles, attributing it partly to advancements in technology that allow criminals to duplicate key fobs. He announced plans for a city-wide Stolen Auto Campaign, aimed at enhancing tracking and forensic methods to combat this growing issue. “Manufacturers need to restrict access to these technologies,” he stated, highlighting the urgent need for collaboration with the auto industry.
Residents also expressed concerns regarding the efficiency of emergency response. Deputy Commissioner Dahl-Campbell reassured the audience that most 911 calls are answered within 10 seconds, although she acknowledged occasional glitches that can occur. Her comments were met with a mix of relief and skepticism, reflecting the community’s desire for rapid emergency services.
The forum was not just a platform for complaints; it fostered a spirit of collaboration as residents learned how to report issues directly via the Philadelphia Police Department’s website, ensuring their voices are heard. Bethel encouraged attendees to utilize the online forms available for reporting abandoned vehicles or illegal parking.
As the forum concluded, participants left with a renewed sense of confidence in their local police force. The panel’s respectful engagement with community concerns highlighted the department’s commitment to transparency and accountability, crucial in these uncertain times.
This urgent meeting underscores the Philadelphia Police Department’s efforts to bridge gaps between law enforcement and the communities they serve. As public safety issues continue to evolve, forums like these play a vital role in fostering trust and cooperation, essential for building safer neighborhoods.
For more updates on community safety initiatives, stay tuned as the Philadelphia Police Department continues to implement strategies in response to resident concerns.