Philadelphia Police Host Urgent Community Forum on Safety Concerns

UPDATE: The Philadelphia Police Department held an urgent community forum at Epic Church in Roxborough on October 10, 2023, addressing pressing public safety concerns. Attendees were eager for answers from Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel and his team of Deputy Commissioners, who answered critical questions about local crime and police operations.

This forum comes at a time when residents are increasingly anxious about rising crime rates, particularly car thefts and aggressive driving. Commissioner Bethel emphasized that the police are listening and committed to making improvements, stating, “If we say we’re gonna do it, we’re gonna do it.”

Panel members included key figures such as Deputy Commissioners John Stanford (Field Operations), Frank Vanore (Investigations), and James Kelly III (Special Operations), who addressed various issues impacting the community. Bethel’s confident presence reassured residents that their concerns were taken seriously.

During the forum, residents raised several quality of life issues, including the alarming rate of car thefts in the area. Captain James Kimrey confirmed that speeding citations have surged this year, reflecting increased enforcement efforts. He also reminded attendees to keep valuables out of sight to prevent thefts, noting, “Officers can’t be everywhere all the time.”

Commissioner Bethel discussed the challenges posed by new technology used by thieves, such as “copying fobs” that aid in car theft. In response, he announced the initiation of a citywide “Stolen Auto Campaign” aimed at enhancing tracking and forensic techniques to combat these crimes effectively.

Deputy Commissioner Krista Dahl-Campbell addressed concerns regarding the efficiency of 911 response times, assuring the audience that most calls are answered within ten seconds. She emphasized the department’s commitment to public safety, stating, “The system earns a gold star every day.”

The forum also covered other vital topics, including community relations and the potential deployment of the National Guard. Bethel lightheartedly noted, “We’re not in the bulls-eye yet,” indicating the department’s preparedness for any eventualities.

Residents left the forum feeling more informed and confident in the police department’s commitment to addressing their concerns. As the city grapples with increasing crime rates, the engagement between the Philadelphia Police and community members highlights the importance of collaboration in ensuring public safety.

As this story develops, residents are encouraged to reach out through the Philadelphia Police Department’s website for reporting issues like abandoned vehicles or traffic concerns.

Stay tuned for further updates on community safety initiatives and police efforts to address rising crime.