LIBERTY Police department hits community beat

Community policing fell by the wayside during the past several years.
By TIM YOVICH
VINDICATOR TRUMBULL STAFF
LIBERTY -- Although they don't live in Liberty, Frances Cowger and Elmer Park are benefiting from an effort to revitalize the community policing program.
Last week, the police department and the American Association of Retired Persons sponsored a two-day driver safety program for those 55 and older.
Cowger, 67, of Girard, and Park, 82, of Youngstown, were among the 23 people who took the course.
Cowger said she wanted her memory about traffic laws refreshed and to become aware of any changes, while Park said he wanted to review his basic driving skills.
Insurance savings: By taking the course, Cowger said she will save $50 to $60 annually on her car insurance; Park will save about $75.
Sgt. Toby Meloro, head of the department's community policing program, said some insurance carriers will reduce premiums by 5 to 10 percent annually for those who attend the program.
Meloro said the traffic refresher course is the beginning of an effort to revitalize community policing in the township -- a partnership between police and residents.
The program fell by the wayside in recent years.
"It was here but it wasn't functioning," Meloro said. "The idea is to get back into the community."
Rather than officers just taking a report of a resident's complaint, the idea is to attempt to resolve the issue.
"In some cases, we won't get called back," Meloro predicted.
Calling cards: Officers on patrol are now leaving calling cards after checking businesses and residences. The card has the officer's name and the date and time the check was done.
If a business or resident has a problem, they have the name of an officer they can contact who is assigned to their area, Meloro explained.
In May, the department will be offering 50 free child restraint seats for those who complete a two-hour safety class.
"We're finding a lot of people who don't know how to use them," Meloro said, noting the new seats will be provided by Toys 'R' Us.
Meloro said the department will be resuming neighborhood block watches.
"They're our eyes and ears out there. They can be a big help," he explained.
Police academy: He also wants to initiate a civilian police academy in the fall.
The academy would be held for eight to 10 weeks, three days a week, two hours a day.
"It would give them a better understanding of what we do," Meloro said. "It will take a lot of planning."
Areas to be studied would include firearms training, laws and traffic regulations.
Meloro said he must get officers trained to serve as instructors.
He pointed out that officers are available to talk to social service agencies, block watches, businesses and neighborhood gatherings about how police can serve them.
yovich@vindy.com