(L-R) Inspector Sabal, Assistant Superintendent Sandra Borden and Deputy Commissioner Maureen Leslie were the panelists at the forum.

   Present at the discussion was Deputy and Acting Commissioner of Police Maureen Leslie, Press Officer G Michael Reid, Assistant Superintendent Sandra Borden, Inspector Joachim Sabal, and other invited guests. A slide show was shown on a projected screen which Maureen Leslie took the time to explain and also discussed the Commissioner’s plan of action for the years to come.

   The main objective of the forum was to discuss the areas where there is a need for improvement on behalf of the police department and to come up with solutions to decrease the ever increasing crime rate. The department’s goals, aims and objectives were all discussed. Their objectives include; the protection of life and property, the maintenance of law and order, the prevention and detection of crime and the apprehension and prosecution of offenders. Some goals that the various departments will strive to accomplish are to provide the highest level of professional service to the public, improve the image and efficiency of the department and a better welfare of the police officers. The areas they plan to better serve the community are to have in place their strategic goals which consists of increasing the effectiveness of preventative patrols, improve road safety, continue to target drug traffickers, and among others to increase professional and quality of service to the public to foster better support and cooperation.

   After much deliberation, the floor was open to the audience to address areas of concern and hear suggestions the department can utilize to better serve the community. The San Pedro Police Department strives to serve the community’s needs. They are continually looking for ways to improve their service, expand community orientated policing programs to better serve and protect the people that live and visit our community. But as the officers stressed, the help and feedback of the community is vital and is necessary for all to live and lead better lives without any fear. We must all cooperate together in address these problems; law enforcement needs community input and support.

   Inspector of Police, Joachim Sabal then addressed the audience and assured them of their continued commitment to provide better service. Sabal stated, “We cannot expect the police to do everything and solve all problems, we need the publics help too to combat and decrease crime.” Sabal went on to comment that if there is ever a need to address complaints or compliments to contact him at the police station and will work along with them to resolve the issues. A question and answer session then ensued, where concerned citizens addressed their concerns and gave their input on ways to be better.

   This is only a starting point from which we can build and improve. Feedback is necessary and encouraged as the police departments continually look for better ways to serve our community.