ROGERS — Before police cruised city streets in patrol cars, officers walked a beat and knew the people on that beat.
Today’s police officers are again walking a beat as part of a Community-Oriented Police Program established by the Rogers Police Department.
The program began in January. Officers are walking beats in neighborhoods and business areas, while getting to know different areas of the city and the people who live or work there.
“We began the ground work on this program about two years ago,” said Steve Hamilton, police chief. “The basic idea is have officers partner with the community.”
The Police Department conducts an annual survey to determine if police are meeting the needs of residents. Respondents to the survey said they wanted more contact with officers, Hamilton said.
“They said they wanted a different style of police involvement and this is the program we designed to meet that need,” Hamilton said. “Years ago people expected to see a policeman walking a beat. It’s come full circle and people are expecting that again.”
Three officers are assigned to squad leader Sgt. Angel Murphy-Pearce: Jared Robinson, John Alexander and Mario Garcia volunteered to be on the squad, but underwent screening before receiving the assignment.
“They are all good police officers, which is important,” Hamilton said. “We also needed officers who have great interpersonal skills, are good problem solvers and great listeners.”
“When you are on foot patrol you are more approachable, it kind of eases the tension,” Robinson said. “We’re out there just talking to people as a person who is interested in changing this community.
“We listen to the problems the people have, develop a solution and put that plan into action,” he added.
Alexander said people were initially shocked when a uniformed officer strolled by.
“They’ve never had an officer do that before. We’ve already seen a change, people want to talk to us they want to know what’s going on,” Alexander said.
Hamilton is concerned some people may think the program is a public relations ploy.
“Nothing could be farther from the truth,” Hamilton stressed. “I don’t have the manpower to waste on grip and grin. These guys are police officers and problem solvers.”
Community policing saves time and helps reduce crime, Hamilton said.
As an example, he pointed to an effort last year when officers worked a hot spot where there was several car break-ins.
“We talked to people and put out a flier about doing one simple thing — we told them to lock the car doors. The (break-ins) dropped almost immediately. In addition, a level of trust was developed,” Hamilton said.
Robinson, Alexander and Garcia work as a team. On Thursday, the trio introduced themselves to downtown business people to explain the program and hand out cards.
Rena Rose, owner of Opulence, was a little concerned when the three officers entered her store at 210 S. First St.
“Am I under arrest?” she joked as the officers entered. The officers and Rose talked about five minutes before the officers moved to the next business.
“I think it’s a great program. I’m impressed that they took the time to introduce themselves to me. I feel more secure knowing there are officers downtown,” Rose said.
Shane Zimmerman, co-owner of The Rail, 218 S. First St. said he thinks having a beat cop is good.
“I like the involvement of the police downtown,” Zimmerman said.
Ruth Davis, owner of Favorite Tuxedos and Alterations, 228 S. First St., said she is excited about the program.
“We’ve been wanting more police coverage downtown. We heard last year about the program, I’m glad it’s in operation. I think everybody downtown is happy about it. It makes me feel good and I think it’s going to make a huge difference,” Davis said.
The officers are as excited about the program as the people they serve.
“This is my hometown,” Alexander said. “This is where my children were born. I want this to be the best town it can possibly be. I think this program will make a difference.”
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At A Glance
The Community-Oriented Police Program began in January.
• Three officers and a sergeant are assigned to the squad.
• Officers walk beats in neighborhoods and shopping areas talking to residents and businessmen in an effort to develop trust and serve the community.
• The officers usually work as a team to solve problems for residents and business owners before a minor issue becomes a major problem.
Source: Staff Report