CRACKING DOWN ON ALL LEVELS OF CRIME

Whenever new officials like police chiefs and fire chiefs come to town, there is always a honeymoon as the community gets to know them and find out more about plans and changes. Cape Girardeau got both new chiefs on the same day, and reaction so far has been positive.

Police Chief Rick Hetzel sweetened the relationship by announcing -- after only a few weeks on the job -- that the police department will step up its efforts to combat low-level crime. Petty offenders will be more likely to find themselves arrested. In short, the heat is being turned up.

The message being sent to would-be criminals is that the police have a new mission to stop the aggravating offenses.

And the message to the community is that the police department is serious about all crime. Most taxpayers are receptive to this plan of attack and will support the department in its efforts.

Both Hetzel and Fire Chief Dan White say they are fortunate to be taking over solid departments. This will make their jobs easier as they initiate future improvements. The overall result is likely to be better police and fire protection with healthy community backing.