Part 8/9:
Wesley emphasizes that police work is fundamentally about people. Officers who feel supported by their communities are more willing to explain their actions, listen to residents’ concerns, and develop mutual understanding. This solidarity benefits everyone, leading to more effective policing and safer neighborhoods.
Patrice remarks nostalgically on the days when residents knew every neighbor, suggesting that bringing officers back into close, personal proximity is reminiscent of traditional and more effective forms of policing. Living within the neighborhoods they serve provides officers with greater empathy and insight, improving their ability to address problems holistically.