UPDATE: The Philadelphia Police Department hosted an urgent community forum at Epic Church in Roxborough on October 18, 2023, aimed at addressing pressing public safety concerns. Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel and senior officials gathered to engage with residents and answer critical questions regarding local law enforcement practices and community safety.
This interactive forum, attended by community members eager for answers, featured a panel including Deputy Commissioners from various departments, who fielded inquiries about quality of life issues affecting the neighborhood. Commissioner Bethel emphasized, “We are here to listen. If we say we’re gonna do it, we’re gonna do it,” reinforcing the department’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
Residents voiced concerns over rising incidents of car thefts and aggressive driving. Captain James Kimrey reported a significant increase in speeding citations this year, highlighting the department’s proactive measures to tackle these challenges. He urged citizens to avoid leaving valuables in plain sight in their vehicles, stressing that simple preventive measures can significantly reduce theft.
Another major topic was the alarming rise in stolen vehicles, exacerbated by criminals using advanced technology to duplicate car fobs. Commissioner Bethel announced plans for a city-wide “Stolen Auto Campaign”, aimed at enhancing tracking and forensic capabilities to combat this growing problem. “Manufacturers need to restrict access to these hacking technologies,” he stated, calling for industry accountability.
During the forum, concerns about emergency response times also emerged. Deputy Commissioner Krista Dahl-Campbell assured attendees that most 911 calls are answered within 10 seconds, affirming the system’s reliability in urgent situations. She expressed pride in the department’s performance, stating, “We earn a gold star every day for keeping our citizens safe.”
The forum also addressed how citizens can report issues directly through the Philadelphia Police Department’s website, allowing for greater community involvement in local policing efforts. As questions about illegal parking and abandoned vehicles were raised, attendees learned about the accessible resources available to them.
The discussion took a lighter turn when the potential arrival of the National Guard was mentioned, prompting Commissioner Bethel to smile as he reassured the crowd that the department is prepared for any eventuality, saying, “We’re not in the bulls-eye yet.”
Overall, the event served as a vital platform for dialogue between the police and the community. Residents left with a renewed sense of confidence in their local law enforcement, eager to participate in ongoing discussions about safety and community well-being.
As the Philadelphia Police Department continues to address these concerns, residents are encouraged to stay engaged and informed. The commitment shown by Commissioner Bethel and his team signifies a proactive approach to ensuring public safety and fostering community trust.
Stay tuned for further updates as the department implements new initiatives aimed at enhancing security and addressing community needs.
