Cape PD being proactive with relationship building

Imagine for a moment if police in Ferguson, Missouri, or Baltimore, Maryland, had made a concerted effort over the years to build more positive relationships with constituents.

Would such extensive rioting have occurred after the tragic deaths of Michael Brown and Freddie Gray? Would the damage have been as widespread? Would the anguish have been as pervasive?

While there's no real way to answer such questions, it's reasonable to believe the response would have been different if those communities had much trust in -- or respect for -- their local law enforcement officers.

But as we've seen in the many newscasts since both incidents occurred, the general outrage over each young man's death was exacerbated by people's long-standing distrust of police. Injustice, whether real or perceived, has a way of spurring action and civil unrest.

When people feel alienated from, and victimized by, those who are charged with protecting them, they are more likely to respond strongly, even in irrational ways such as destroying businesses and homes in their own neighborhoods.

Fortunately, Cape Girardeau police are trying to build trust that is not seen in many other places. They realize that law enforcement begins with basic relationships. Being accessible and visible. Taking action when and where appropriate. Listening to needs and concerns. Being seen as people before being seen as enforcers. And while they might not be perfect, Cape Girardeau's police officers are trying.

There's a lot to be said for trying.

The Cape Girardeau Police Department's latest community relations effort, dubbed Neighborhood Roll Call, is consistent with another program, Coffee with Cops. Roll Call is meant to make police available to citizens on designated days and times, to answer questions or concerns, in a relatively informal, nonthreatening, much less intimidating setting than a visit to the station would be for many.

It is small but significant acts such as these that keep lines of communication open. And communication between cops and residents is vital in not only keeping our city safe, but heading off larger issues in the future.

Cape PD is to be congratulated for making the time and having the foresight to know and understand the people whom they are serving and protecting.