Arcata Police Chief does Community Walk to Humanize the Badge

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ARCATA, CA (KIEM) – Arcata Police Chief Brian Ahearn takes a walk in Arcata to get to know some residents. He says he does this to humanize the badge.

Taking a Sunday stroll on 13th and O Street to say hello to residents is something Arcata Police Chief Brian Ahearn enjoys doing. He wants to breakdown the barrier between the community and cops.

“The way you do that is by interacting with people, and community engagement. And so by talking and sharing with everyone, they get to see that we’re just like they are,” said Brian Ahearn, Arcata Police Chief.

Only two people showed up for the community walk. That didn’t stop Ahearn from knocking on neighbors’ doors to introduce himself. He believes every person matters.

“If you’re not talking with people, that’s the missing link. The community walks is an opportunity to continue to gauge how we’re doing [and] continue to refine our approach,” said Ahearn.

One of the residents that did show up for the community walk heard about it via social media. He thinks it is important to know what is going on in his backyard.

“I think more people should be coming out here, and getting to learn more about the community and get to talk with the Chief. You don’t really get to do that too much,” said Brendan Benas, an Arcata resident.

Ahearn wants the Arcata community to have access to him and the police department if they need anything at all. He says he’s is just an email or phone call away.

“Give me a call or send me an email, and I’m always available. Whether it’s a community walk, or a meeting, or just a talk on a sidewalk near your neighborhood.  I want to know your story,” said Ahearn.

If you would like to know when the Arcata Police Department will do another community event, call (707) – 822 -2428. Or head over to their Facebook Page.