The NYPD plans to have officers host, so they can get to know residents one-on-one. Andrew Siff reports.
The NYPD is holding neighborhood meetings around the city to discuss public safety concerns and possible solutions.
The meetings will be run by officers, without commanders looking over their shoulders, who work specifically on building community relations.
Commissioner James O'Neill is asking New Yorkers to find their local meetings and attend, so the NYPD can better understand problems and concerns.
The department created a website, www.buildtheblock.nyc listing meeting locations and is searchable by address.
O'Neill says the aim is to engage in honest conversation about the role of police on the streets of the city. He wants to continue to build trust with the community.
"If they don't trust us who are they going to turn to?" O'Neill said.
The department's chief of patrol says cops and residents may need to get used to being honest with each other.
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"We need your help to make this work," O'Neill said.
One resident said she hasn't felt safe, but thinks the campaign could help.
"I like that idea," Francisca Villona, of the Bronx, said. "I would like to see more police. I don't see enough police."
