In an effort to tighten the bonds of safety and partnership within the community, the Akron Police Department has announced an enhancement to its Property Checks Program. Revealed through a social media post, the Akron Police Department outlined the new additions to the program designed "to better serve and protect you" as part of its ongoing Community Engagement Strategy.
The department's initiative now includes leaving behind a newly designed door hanger upon completion of property checks. This tweaked approach to community policing serves to provide residents with tangible evidence of the department’s vigilance. "Our officers have always made it a priority to check local businesses and homes during overnight hours. Now, we’re taking it a step further," the Akron Police Department states in its announcement.
An interesting aspect of the new door hangers is that they are not only signs of the police's presence but also include potentially life-saving safety tips. Should an officer notice an unsecured door or visible valuables, the hanger will carry recommendations on how to improve security. Furthermore, the hangers carry QR codes that direct residents to the APD's Community Safety Tips and Recruiting pages, emphasizing a dual focus on safety and the department's pursuit of new recruits.
Engagement offerings, such as these door hangers, are part of a larger strategy aimed at fostering trust between the Akron Police and the communities they serve. "This is just one more way we’re working with you and for you—building trust, promoting safety, and strengthening our neighborhoods," the Akron Police Department expressed on their social media statement. By integrating technological tools with physical outreach, the APD is making a push to modernize its community interaction. With this initiative, Akron's police force aims to remain visible and approachable, underlining their commitment, as their post concludes, "Thank you for being our partners in keeping our community safe."
