Feeling Safe Yet? An Update

An armed robbery at the Dunkin Donuts, another at Beifeld Jewelers, a home invasion in Abington a half mile from Jenkintown, “crime tourists” in Rydal, an attempted catalytic converter theft on Walnut, and Chief Scott responds to all this by reducing Jenkintown’s police presence. What’s wrong with this picture?

As most of you know there has been a push by the council and chief to eliminate or greatly reduce the presence of police in Jenkintown. Even with all the new apartments and the new residents, and a new grocery store that will draw people from all over, our council people have actively sought to cripple our police department. Much has been written about the goings on by council and the chief in regard to these efforts while many residents still think nothing has yet been done to accomplish this deed, but they are sorely mistaken. 

Here is the latest:

Chief Scott has furloughed one officer, another is retiring at the end of month, and a third officer has resigned to work elsewhere for the worst reason — a toxic workplace. Who would want to stay with the pendulum swinging above their heads? As of now, there are many shifts with only one officer on, not just night shifts. 

Apparently, the chief has changed how he staffs. It appears the minimum staffing of one officer has been spread out across day shifts, too. From what we gather, there will be only one officer for most of the shifts. Of course, the chief will be there at times during the day, but let’s be honest. How many times have we seen him out patrolling or backing officers on stops on other types of calls we’ve observed happening. 

The truth is more officers are looking at leaving Jenkintown and once they do, it will be interesting how he will figure out staffing. Just try to imagine you have an emergency and call 911 only to be told the officer is attending to another emergency. Guess it will be a matter of “take a number and wait your turn”. Hopefully you’re not facing an armed break-in or a medical emergency. 

And remember, Abington and Cheltenham have made it clear: They cannot provide police service to Jenkintown.

Losing our police, either through an out and out elimination or by creating a work environment that makes people want to leave, will slowly choke the life out of the department. Officers forced to give up their vesting and pensions to start new elsewhere should concern all of us. Who would want to work for a boss with that reputation? The chief claims that he can’t talk about force levels for security’s sake, but that just gives him cover to play fast and loose with our protection. That it is happening in relative secrecy should enrage everyone.

Elections are coming for many of the ward representatives and maybe its time to consider making some changes to insure those in charge are watching out for the community’s best interest and not cutting corners at our expense and safety.