Municipalities across the country are working to evaluate what policing will look like in their communities going forward. Harrisburg has taken the next step by proposing a Community Services Division within the Harrisburg Police Department. Mayor Eric Papenfuse had proposed a force of about a dozen community service officers that would aid in mental health calls and work closely with citizens. However, Harrisburg Council approved seven as a pilot program in next year’s budget.
The Community Services Division would be made up mostly of civilians with a mission to “build a bridge” between the community and the police force.
Harrisburg Mayor Eric Papenfuse and City Police Commissioner Thomas Carter appear on Smart Talk Thursday to discuss the merits of the program.
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