Over the past two weeks I’ve seen more beat cops walking the streets than ever before. Every time that I’m on Allen Street I’ve seen them – both in the early evening and late at night. I’ve also noticed that there are fewer pesky panhandlers and dealers about when the officers are present. There has also been an increase in the number of police officers on bikes and Segways… or so it seems. Whatever the changes have been, they are welcome. Each time that we’ve run into a beat cop we’ve made it a point to thank them for patrolling the neighborhood on foot. Hopefully word gets back to the department that the community is taking notice and is appreciative of the effort.
If you would like to read a passionate and informative thread on beat cops in Buffalo, take a look at this post that appeared on BRO back in April. I hope that this initiative is not a flash in the pan, and continues to lead to even lower crime levels (see Buffalo News article on City’s anti-crime efforts paying off). There is no comparison when it comes to having a police officer in the community rather than driving through the community. If every police officer was required to walk one hour each day as part of his or her duty, our commercial districts would be safer and we would see more people from outside the city paying a visit.
If you would like to make a comment directly to the department, here is a link to send them a note.
If you are aware of a crime related problem in your neighborhood, please contact the police at:
Text a Tip: (716) 847-2255
or
Tip Call: (716) 847-2255
Also, be prepared to make calls in the future by entering these numbers into your phone – just in case you do witness a crime-related incident. The community can play a major role when it comes to keeping crime down in Buffalo.