Maxwell Park Newsby Bryan Farley | |
Captain Joyner discusses the recent success in OPD Area 3 at the July MPNC meeting. Photo by Bryan Farley.
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For the last three years, I have been taking photographs for the Metro. Now, I will be writing the Maxwell Park column. I have lived in Maxwell Park for eight years; my daughter attends school at Melrose Leadership Academy. Like many of our neighbors, I am committed to the neighborhood, and in my future columns, I want to tell the stories of our committed community members.
I will also report the news. On July 14, 2010, the Maxwell Park Neighborhood Council (MPNC) met at the Mills Grove Church on Fleming Avenue near 55th. Oakland Police Captain, and Oakland native, Ersie Joyner discussed the recent success of the Oakland Police Department and specifically Area 3. Captain Joyner commands Area 3, the largest of Oakland's three geographic areas. Recently, violent crime has reduced, and he is optimistic despite budget cuts.
Captain Joyner said, "Historically, Area 3 had the largest crime rate, largest geographical area, and lowest funding. That has changed with Chief Batts. Chief Batts is the most phenomenal police leader in my 19 years in law enforcement."
Captain Joyner also expressed the importance of the community being involved in their own policing. When community members know each other, crime goes down. Maxwell Park neighbors have many opportunities to meet their neighbors during National Night Out on Tuesday, August 3. Who would have thought that a block party would help fight crime?