Gainesville Police Department Chief Tony Jones wants city residents to understand a couple of things.
First, Jones wants Gainesville residents to know they play a critical role in preventing crime.
Secondly, Jones wants local citizens to know that as chief he promises to do everything in his power to reduce crime in Gainesville.
The Gainesville Police Department addressed its recent reorganization and changes it has made in order to better serve the community.
About a dozen citizens attended the meeting Tuesday evening at the Gainesville Police 2010 presentation, held at the Westside Park recreation center.
“I knew change was needed at GPD,” Jones said.
Jones added that sergeants will now work as a team with the police officers.
Previously, the sergeants were on different shifts.
“We’ve got to work in partnership,” Jones said.
In addition, GPD is anticipating budget cuts, so it needs an increasing amount of community aid in preventing crime.
Currently, GPD has a class for volunteers called the Citizen’s Academy, which is designed to engage residents in their community.
“The end result is volunteers will work in the police department,” said Capt. Ed Book.
The volunteers will use skills they already have in order to serve their community. Tasks will require grant-writing and clerical skills.
GPD hopes that eventually citizens on patrol will be able to identify and prevent crimes, Book said.
Barbara Ruth, Stephen Foster Neighborhood Association president, said she decided to attend the presentation to have a better understanding of GPD’s changes.
“It seems like a very positive thing is happening,” Ruth said. “I think the new chief is doing some good things.”
