So I took DUers' block watch advice...Here is the result

[JM]

I sent this letter to the Police Department via the Mayor's office. I doubt it will do anything, but I feel better. At least I didn't open my mouth while I was there. I would have been in jail.

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RE: 6/28/2004 Police Zone 4 Visit

To whom this may concern:

Last Friday morning, my wife witnessed a drug sale on the corner by our house. As a result, I have managed to rally our neighbors into backing a neighborhood block watch.

I took the role as leader for this effort, and took time from work to visit Zone 4 today to request information on Block Watch programs. It is safe to say I could not have not been more disappointed with the result.

When I went in to Zone 4, I approached the officer behind the desk and politely asked for the block watch information. In my opinion, the response I got was one of "how dare you interrupt my crossword puzzle". I was brusquely told that the officer in charge of such programs, Ashley Thompson, was not working today, and the officer wrote down her information for me. I offered to leave my information to pass on, but the officer refused it.

I understand morale is at all time lows given the city's financial condition. I also understand people have an occassional off day. What I don't understand, however, is how a member of the Police Department could so easily dismiss a citizen (or a group for that matter) interested in volunteering their time to help the police better perform their duties and make our neighborhoods safer.

I think officers need to be reminded that when citizens volunteer to help, cooperation, not confrontation, will make their job much easier.

Sincerely,
xxxxx xxxx

[jobycom]

1. Well worded. nt.

[Retired AF Dem]

2. To many police depts have forgotten that they work for us

we don't work for them.

[JM]

3. Actually, they need to work

with us, not for us. Technically you are right, but the spirit needs to be with, not for.

JM