PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Following the shooting death of Temple University Police Officer Christopher Fitzgerald earlier this year, the university has introduced a “Park and Walks” initiative, increasing officer foot patrols on and around campus.
Temple police officers assigned to patrol vehicles must now do foot patrols for at least 90 minutes of their 12-hour shift. This is in addition to regular foot and bicycle patrols.
Temple Police Officer Chris DeRose says the idea is to have officers learn more about the students, faculty, business owners, and community they protect.
“It is definitely needed and it’s basically back to the basics,” he said. “And us just out here engaging with people and letting them know that we are out here, I think it will deter a lot of crime.”
Much like other police departments across the country, Temple’s police staff face the challenge of lacking the necessary manpower to perform the task of protecting the community. To combat this, the school’s Department of Public Safety is working to recruit and retain more officers through new benefits and equipment.
Starting salaries have increased, with officers making $70,000 in their first year. In September, four new officers joined the force with more expected.
Temple junior Jore Bagdonas says she believes the extra foot patrols combined with her normal safety precautions help her feel safe.
“I always just try to make sure to walk with someone,” she said. “My friend keeps pepper spray on her. Like once it starts to get dark I try to be home.”
The union representing the university’s officers police force wants officers paired up on patrols, something that isn’t always able to be done. DeRose says he believes the extra foot patrols can spread positivity throughout the community.
“We will check with the businesses and engage with the students and faculty walking around and will also engage with the community members,” he said. “A lot of the guys like to get out of their car and even sometimes they like to play basketball with some of the kids in the neighborhood or throw the football around.”