Voice of OC (https://voiceofoc.org/tag/community-policing/)
A new board and president have been installed at the Santa Ana Police Officers Association as some officers have demanded a more aggressive, confrontational style in dealing with city leaders.
A two-hour long community forum hosted by Voice of OC featured spirited discussions on issues ranging from the Santa Ana Police Department’s community policing program, to immigration detainees at the city jail and a perceived lack of accountability for officers who engage in misconduct.
Santa Ana Police Chief Carlos Rojas and City Councilman David Benavides will discuss community policing with the public and Voice of OC on Sept. 29.
Police departments in two California cities — Los Angeles and Richmond — see community-oriented policing as crucial to maintaining the trust of their residents.
While Santa Ana Police Department brass contend they’re committed to community policing, many residents say the commitment doesn’t show up at street level.
Attendees of the forum, held by Connect-to-Council, said the Santa Ana Police Department must be held to higher accountability standards if it is to have a credible community policing program.
Residents spoke up about the influence of violence, disturbances, and marijuana and alcohol use on their neighborhood.