'You will see a difference': Neptune police chief focused on connecting with residents
NEPTUNE - Police Chief Larry Fisher told residents he has a community-based vision for the Neptune Township Police Department, which includes increasing communication between officers and residents.
"I am a community officer, I grew up in the community and I grew up talking with the community. My whole thing has been I want the community to feel a part of the township police department," Fisher said.
At a July 21 community meeting hosted by the Midtown Urban Renaissance Corporation, Fisher, who started as a patrolman in 1988, said he wants his officers to get out of their cars and engage with people one on one in township neighborhoods.
Fisher was sworn in as the township's first African American police chief on June 1.
The biggest issue facing the department, Fisher said, is finding more "good officers" who want to serve the community, not just receive a paycheck, Fisher said.
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"Within a few months, I will be looking to hire new officers but I am looking for officers in this area's community. So if you know someone that you know fits the bill, tell them put an application in online and lets get these interviews started," Fisher said.
Fisher said he wants to recruit from the local area because it's important for the department to have a strong connection to the people it serves. The police department currently has 74 officers, but can have up to 78.
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"I remember when I was in the street as a young officer that because I knew a lot of folks they would share information with me ... and I would keep it to myself but I would use that information to help solve some cases. That is what we've been missing," Fisher said.
The chief added that he noticed his officers are on the highway "way too much, they're not state troopers."
"I want to see them riding in the community. I want to see them getting out of their cars," Fisher said, adding, "You will see a difference within a few months."
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Midtown Urban Renaissance Corporation President Dianna Harris said she was very happy to hear Fisher was so focused on community policing.
"I'm hoping to work with him and his officers to develop new and creative activities for our youth," Harris said.
Charles Daye is the metro reporter for Asbury Park and Neptune, with a focus on diversity, equity and inclusion. @CharlesDayeAPP Contact him: CDaye@gannettnj.com
This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: Neptune police chief to increase engagement with residents, cops
