Hightstown Police Increasing Foot Patrols Downtown
The effort is part of the police director's community policing initiative.
An increased police presence will be seen in downtown Hightstown now that officers will be conducting at least two foot patrols each shift, according to the police director.
The foot patrols are not in response to a specific crime, but rather formalizing a practice some officers already did, and mandating it for every officer on a shift, said Police Director James Le Tellier. He said there have been some of the same complaints in the downtown, including bicycles riding on sidewalks and a lack of police presence, but nothing out of the ordinary.
“These foot patrol will serve as a deterrent and make people feel safer,” he said.
There will be a minimum of eight foot patrols in the downtown, with each of the two officers on duty during a 12-hour shift conducting at least two foot patrols, walking around the downtown and visiting local businesses, Le Tellier said.
The effort, which began Wednesday, is part of Le Tellier’s community policing initiative he implemented after being named Police Director in February.
“Community policing is about reconnecting with the people we serve. Technology is great, but nothing can replace personal interaction with someone,” he said.
While conducting foot patrols either officers or supervisors will be enforcing any violations of the law or borough code, as well as quality life issues, he said. The police department’s K9 officer, Niko, will also participate in the foot patrols.
“Having a police presence down there I think will help improve the downtown Hightstown area,” Le Tellier said.
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B.Bennett
6:54 am on Saturday, July 28, 2012
This is long overdue and is a good idea. You can't walk on the sidewalks in town as there are bicycles and people loitering on the street/s. We haven't gone into downtown Hightstown in months and now we will consider that. Thanks to the police director as we think he is really trying to get this town straightened out.
JP Gibbons
7:43 am on Saturday, July 28, 2012
With fewer officers, HPD is providing more visability and a tighter connection with the community. This may be just the start of a solid rebuilding for both the HPD and Hightstown itself.
I was always told that is what real leadership is all about. Congrats to Driector Le Tellier and the entire HPD for their vision and hard work. Improved staffing and direction will make Hightstown what we want and need from a safety aspect.
Just Saying
9:55 am on Saturday, July 28, 2012
A picture of The Slow down Cafe in the fall of who knows what year. Really? Current events with pictures from the past. Nice mix.
Joann Palma
10:17 am on Saturday, July 28, 2012
Finally...a wonderful idea. I do not recall any police "on foot" presence since Reppy retired. Our Hightstown officers serve our community well and shoulde be commended. All improvements for our town are truely a step in the right direction...Congrats!.
E
10:20 am on Saturday, July 28, 2012
I applaud Police Director LeTellier for making community policing a priority. The practice of our police officers "walking the beat" is a welcome safety initiative! The visible presence of our PD and K9 officer in the downtown area will certainly encourage more residents and visitors alike to take a stroll, shop and dine in our downtown area. Thank you Director LeTellier for the outstanding job you and the HPD are doing to keep our community safe!
Christina Marie
11:58 am on Saturday, July 28, 2012
Finally a move in the right direction. I've never seen any officers "walking the beat" but will welcome the sight!
Scott Caster
2:18 pm on Saturday, July 28, 2012
Mr. Police Director and all the officers, thank you.
Rebecca
4:19 pm on Saturday, July 28, 2012
I've been missing this the past few years! A step in the right direction, definitely! Thank you... and see you downtown!
Sherry
6:34 pm on Saturday, July 28, 2012
Very much appreciated by the residents of downtown!! Thank you!
Dave Bell
7:19 pm on Saturday, July 28, 2012
Glad to see this. We are a small town and having a foot patrol is a great idea. Hope this will help clear the sidewalks a little and make the town look better.
Resident
3:55 pm on Sunday, July 29, 2012
They should be patroling the apartments on foot instead.