Harrison Police Engage Community: Pizza With A Cop Mon. Oct. 2, 2023

Harrison Police Chief David Strumolo is excited to announce a series of Community Policing events organized by the Harrison Police Department to foster a stronger bond between the police force and the residents of Harrison. The 2^nd Annual Pizza With A Cop event is slated for Monday, October 2, 2023, at the Firehouse Playground located at Wilhelm Street & 7th Street, from 6 pm to 8 pm. Attendees will be treated to complimentary pizza and drinks, making for a convivial atmosphere. 

The United States Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, elucidates Community Policing as a collaborative endeavor between the police and the community to identify and address local issues. This initiative empowers community members to become active partners in enhancing neighborhood safety and quality. The broader perspective on crime control, prevention, and the engagement of community members in problem-solving processes signifies a progressive shift in community policing dynamics. Neighborhood patrol officers, supported by the police organization, assist community members in mobilizing support and resources to tackle issues and improve their quality of life. This constructive partnership thrives on the collective energy, creativity, understanding, and patience of all stakeholders involved. 

Community Policing Isn’t New to Harrison 

The concept of Community Policing is well-rooted in the Harrison Police Department's ethos. Retired Deputy Chief Patrick Minutillo pioneered the Harrison Community Policing initiative during the 1990s and 2000s. During this period, Harrison Police Officers actively engaged in community activities such as Naturalization Drives, aiding residents in their pursuit of United States Citizenship. These events facilitated the fingerprinting process required for the United States Immigration and Naturalization Center applications, with experienced volunteers on hand to assist with the application completion. Notable community organizations like the Harrison Fest Committee, led by President Anselmo Millan, and the Centro Romeu Cascaes Portuguese American Community Center of Harrison NJ, played pivotal roles in conducting these Naturalization Drives. The friendly interactions between the police officers and residents during these events fostered a sense of community and transformed the way they interacted on the streets of Harrison. 

Your Harrison extends hearty appreciation to Police Chief David Strumolo and the officers of the Community Policing Unit for their commendable efforts in nurturing a close-knit community. A heartwarming tale from these events is the blossoming romance between a Harrison Police officer and a volunteer, who met during one of the United States Naturalization Drives, showcasing the unforeseen and delightful benefits of volunteering for the Harrison Community Policing Unit. 

Harrison Junior Police Academy

Furthermore, the Harrison Police Department celebrated a successful Junior Police Academy (JPA) this summer. The JPA, a nationwide program with a 20-year legacy, emphasizes community responsibility among young citizens and public servants. Designed to fortify the connection between law enforcement and local youth, the program provides a glimpse into the life of a police officer. The Harrison Police Department’s Junior Police Academy 2023 notably achieved its objectives, nurturing a sense of community responsibility among the participants. For a detailed insight into the Harrison Junior Police Academy 2023, check out Your Harrison’s coverage linked in this article, showcasing the positive impact of such community-oriented initiatives. 

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 Photo Credit: Harrison Police Department