GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — Grand Rapids Police Department Chief David Rahinsky says the community has played a crucial role in helping his agency improve relations.
The police department released its “report card” on its progress with the 12-point plan on Thursday.
“It’s really a check-in. It’s an opportunity to share with the community where we are in the 12-point plan,” said Rahinsky. “And while it may seem like a victory lap for the police department, this has all been collaborative. The community has been with us every step of the way.”
The effort began back in 2015. So far, most objectives of the 12-point plan have been met, including improving hiring practices to create a more diverse police force, additional training for officers about cultural differences and how to identify and avoid bias, and hiring consultants to examine race disparities when it comes to arrests.
And for the last two years, every sworn GRPD officer has been wearing a body camera.
Rahinsky says the cameras have been a game-changer for the department. He says national studies have shown body cameras not only improve the way officers approach the public, but the way the public reacts to officers.
“I don't think a week goes by where we haven't had an issue where someone will call, not necessarily with a complaint, but with a concern,” said Rahinsky. “And the opportunity to say we appreciate that, and ‘Come in, we'll look at the footage, we'll dissect it, we'll explain to you why things occurred the way they did,’ has been a benefit to us and the community."
The chief is holding open office hours next month for anyone with questions about department procedures, policies or anything else regarding the GRPD. It's scheduled for May 4, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visitors do not need an appointment.