5 weeks ago, we reported on the Police Department's decision to adopt the precinct system as its new strategy to combat crime in Belize City. The emphasis in on the efficient use of resources by sectioning off the city into 4 zones. From there, they hope to respond more readily, and also to rebuild a relationship with the public.
Well, that second aim is a daunting one because the department has been plagued by a minority of rogue officers who have damaged their public image, making the public very distrustful.
Well today, we got a chance to see first-hand the intervention of Police Precinct #1 around Amara Avenue, which is one of the toughest areas to police because of the intersection of gang territories. Here's what the Precinct Commander told us about the surprisingly favourable response from residents.
Superintendent Alden Dawson - Commander, Police Precinct
"Since coming over here the 27th of February, our objective was to reach out to the community in every form that we possibly could have. We started actually with the recruitment of the Cadet and we started on the first week of March. We had 16 cadets and these cadets are from the various areas and different kids of different behaviour -some are problem child and some are good children, it varies. After that recruitment we had 16. To date we have 67 since the first of March to now we have over 128-130 persons that are interested to come and work for the police in the neighborhood watch setting. Now we presently have the coordinator Mr. Pitts who is organizing that, like I've said we always welcome people to join in this kind of effort. It will make - it's our neighborhood, it's our community, them coming forward is actually helping the crime situation."
We also got a chance to speak with a few of the new Police Youth Cadets who are made basically children exposed to the vices of a tough neighborhood. They told us that they are very happy to be given a positive outlet under the precinct system:
Emroy Williams - Police Youth Cadet
"Being a part of the Cadet Corps is good because it helps you to not go out in the street and doing wrong things."
Daniel Ortiz
"Is it something that you thought you would never approach because many people are nervous around police officers."
Damion Wade - Police Youth Cadet
"Sometimes"
Daniel Ortiz
"Now that you've joined it and you've seen that it's something positive; is it something that you want to continue?"
Damion Wade
"Yes sir"
Britney Hernandez - Police Youth Cadet
"It has been enjoyable because we play a lot of games like basketball, football and all sorts of games."
Daniel Ortiz
"So Denzel, how long have you been a part of the Youth Cadet Corps?"
Denzel Gilharry - Police Youth Cadet
"For 3 days"
Daniel Ortiz
"What attracted you to it?"
Denzel Gilharry - Police Youth Cadet
"My aunt is a police officer and I want to be one like her."
The police personnel operating in the city has been increased drastically with the infusion of 100 new officers who graduated on March 19 as part of Recruit Intake #88.
Email
Print