A collaborative effort between concerned citizens and police officers, the Community Policing program of the Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office works to identify problems of crime and disorder and find solutions.
In order for Community Policing to be effective, two components must be prevalent:
When the police and community develop a positive relationship and the community is involved in the quest for crime control and prevention. Mutual trust and respect is established between the police and community creating a better understanding of each other’s needs.
The process through which the specific concerns or needs of a community are identified and the most appropriate remedies to eradicate these problems are found. Joint efforts between the police and community are most effective for problem solving because it reinforces trust and facilitates the exchange of information.