PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — The most recent graduates of the Philadelphia Police Academy began their first day of work in Kensington Tuesday. But the new officers were not a visible presence yet. Staff Inspector LaVerne Vann, who runs the Kensington Police District, says they were out in small groups just to get oriented.
“It took years to get into the situation we are today, so we have to manage expectations that me putting 75 men and women in today, is going to resolve the issue tomorrow,” said Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel.
Bethel stopped by the District to welcome the officers after their first forays into the neighborhood and said they seemed undaunted by the challenges.
“I saw nothing but excitement and energy,” he said.
Vann is confident the officers will make a difference. But some residents, who didn’t want their names used, are not so sure.
“It’s a terrible idea, putting all the cops in one place, inexperienced, undertrained,” one resident said.
Terrence, who sweeps the street for a neighborhood nonprofit is, if not hopeful, willing to give it a chance.
“It’s different now, the barricades are up and it is helping that people aren’t just sitting there. With this new foot patrol, I’m curious,” Terrence said.
The officers are only part of the city’s plan to restore the neighborhood. So far, unregistered cars have been towed, vacant houses sealed, lots cleaned and nuisance businesses cited.
“I don’t know, it’s just like a breath of fresh air. We can sit outside now whenever it gets too hot,” said Jada, who works in an electronics store, one of the few open on the mostly shuttered strip.
She and Jenny Ramos, who works in an appliance store across the street, agree Kensington Avenue looks better, but Ramos says the problems are right around the corner.
“I park on Clearfield, walking through it to get over here, it’s not good. It smells, they don’t let you walk, the pavement is theirs,” Ramos said.
She says these changes are going to take time.
“It’s not going to happen in one day. It’s not going to happen in one month,” she said.