The ideal relationship is one in which the police are constantly hearing from all facets of the community regardless of race, gender, age, or class, and the community hearing from the police in a consistent manner. We have been marginalized and alienated from the politics in this city. Without a sense of ownership or at least partnership our vested interest declines as well as our faith. This makes sense when we look into the limitations provided by New Bedford's vicious political machinery. Most officials are appointed.
Jobs are open to politicians' families and friends.
Injustices go on in the streets by many officers and internal investigations filed often add up to nothing but frustration. We feel disempowered for a reason. In order to get residents and police to have a better relationship, residents of New Bedford must feel that their voice matters. Chief Kelly must, through his vast experiences, find a way to work with regular, everyday folk to ensure that their opinions and issues of concern are taken seriously. I'm not sure if they exist at all, but I am certain that they do not exist to the necessary extent, but regular community meetings might be extremely effective.