INKSTER – The Wayne County Sheriff's Office will partner with the City of Inkster to assist in community policing in an effort to reduce crime and increase police visibility in a community impacted by significant economic issues.
At a Tuesday press conference the Sheriff's Office announced it will deploy its successful Sheriff's Community Organized Urban Team (SCOUT) program in various areas of Inkster, teaming up with neighborhood watch groups and block clubs. The program kicked off in 2010 in several Wayne County communities including the Osborn, Rosedale Park and Dearborn neighborhoods.
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SCOUT has produced positive results by teaming up Sheriff's deputies with neighborhood volunteers to prevent crime and raise safety awareness.
SCOUT is not a substitute for 9-1-1 service but rather a way for officers to interact with businesses, schools, faith-based and community groups to improve quality of life in a targeted area. The program includes use of a Sheriff's mobile command post to increase visibility.
"Police presence deters crime," said Wayne County Sheriff Benny N. Napoleon. "But law enforcement can't be everywhere. By working closely with residents and other stakeholders in the neighborhood, we can prevent crime and eliminate those quality of life problems that are eroding the peace and safety in our neighborhoods."
Sheriff's Chief of Operations Raphael Washington and Deputy Chief Mike Jaafar outlined SCOUT last week in a meeting with Inkster residents at the city's community policing center.
A cash-strapped community of about 25,000 residents, Inkster has experienced cutbacks in police and city services due to losses in revenue. City officials welcomed the partnership with the Sheriff's Office as well as ongoing initiatives with the Michigan State Police.
"I am committed to providing the best services possible to residents of this city," said Inkster City Manager Richard Marsh. "I realize the need to work together and partner with other entities. We are moving forward at a rapid pace to improve not only the quality of life for our citizens but the image of the city of Inkster."
SCOUT is funded by Wayne County and will operate in Inkster and other communities until September