paterson
By: Richard L. Smith
On Saturday, July 23, the Honorable Mayor Andre Sayegh, Chief Bert Ribeiro, Detective/Sgt. Irsi Velez and other city leaders joined Paterson Explorers and Habitat for Humanity members for their Northside Block Party, promoting community policing and partnering with the Paterson community.
In an interview with RLS Media, Paterson Police Chief Ribeiro praised the event and called the involvement of the police community a “philosophy” and not just a unit of the department.
“Our Paterson Police Department values and promotes organizational strategies that support the systematic use of partnerships and problem-solving techniques to proactively address immediate conditions that give rise to public safety issues such as crime , social disorder and fear of crime,” Chief Ribeiro said. said
“This department appreciates the community of Paterson, and it is because of engagements like this that solidify that the community’s partnership with the police remains strong,” Chief Ribeiro continued.
The day included bounce houses, a game truck, live music, food and giveaways.
Representatives from the Paterson Police Department, Fire Department and Library were on hand to provide educational resources and demonstrations.
The Paterson Police Explorers program led by Detective/Sergeant Irsi Velez was launched for resident students between the ages of 14 and 18.
The hands-on approach gives members the basic training on how to work a car accident scene, be part of an emergency response and what it’s like to be a Paterson police officer.
“Community-oriented policing and effective communication, while members of our Explorer students provide and mix opportunities for all members of the community to clarify misunderstandings, reduce misperceptions, restrict stereotypes, and dispel rumours, understanding that the communal roles of others and respecting the individuality of others. -.Detective/Sgt. Irsi Vélez
Detective/Sgt. Irsi Velez said she is proud of The Paterson Explorers Post 1 as it provides professional training and mentorship with hands-on experience in the fields of law enforcement, firefighting and emergency medical services.
“We as a department strive to bridge the gap between law enforcement and the community by restoring trust and accountability,” said Chief Bert Ribeiro.
“We will continue to make positive interactions with the community a part of our philosophy, and today’s success shows that we are making great strides forward,” concluded Chief Bert Ribeiro. 
