Video: “Walk and Talk” Hopes To Build Community, Police Relationship

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STARKVILLE, Miss. (WCBI) — The Starkville Police Department kicked off its “Walk and Talk” initiative in an effort to get out and meet residents to help strengthen the relationship between police and the community.

Chief Frank Nichols said he asked all of his officers to take 15 minutes of their time, while on duty, to get out of their patrol car and speak with residents face to face.  In a fun twist, Nichols also said for officers to take a picture with residents to post to the department’s Facebook page.

“With the whole perception of police officers not liking citizens and vice versa, I think the burden of proof is on us as police officers to cross that bridge, and bridge that gap…”, said Nichols.

Officer Antione Golden believes its important for the community to “know who we are”.

Golden also said stepping out of the patrol car is nothing new to him, but that the “Walk and Talk” is a good way to show the community that this is a part of their daily work.

Golden also said that some residents he has personally met have assisted him on a call or a crime investigation.

“The police are a part of the community…”, said Nichols.

“We would cease to exist without the community’s help…the whole community-oriented police philosophy, this is one part of that, one small, but necessary step in that philosophy.”

Nichols said the initiative will last through the week, and the initiative will possibly become a monthly goal.