The Romeoville Police Department has two ways of planning their policing strategy: Proactive policing and community policing. Proactive policing strategies that are used include enhancing technology and working with other agencies. In addition, Romeoville recently hired eight officers to patrol the community and outlined and enacted a truck enforcement plan. On the community policing side, most residents are probably familiar with the citizen and youth police academies, the D.A.R.E. program, and police participation in community events like National Night Out and park parties. One of the newest additions to the community policing strategy has been the hiring of Demetris Anderson to fill the newly created position of Commander of Community Relations. The job calls for developing strategies and programs to work with the community, specifically in community outreach and youth engagement. Priorities include partnering with community organizations and promoting community oriented policing programs.
“My goal with this position is to create an inclusive culture between the community and law enforcement,” explained Commander Anderson. “A community that feels respected and protected is more likely to return respect and have trust in our department.”
Commander Anderson started his law enforcement career in Romeoville in 2003 and spent a decade as a School Liaison Officer. Coaching and mentoring youth has been extremely rewarding for him. “When kids realize that we genuinely care for them, they want to do better not just for you, but for themselves,” he says.
At the end of the day, policing is very much a partnership with the community. The Romeoville Police Department relies on residents to be the eyes and ears of Romeoville. If you see something or have a concern, they encourage you to contact them via their anonymous tip line: 815-886-8080. If you have any ideas for what the police can do, whether it be community outreach or proactive policing, give them a call at 815-886-7219 or email your ideas to danderson@romeoville.org.