Country cops

BY Lia Bichel and
A COUNTRY-STYLE community meeting will be introduced to Dandenong to tackle issues affecting the area.
The initiative involving a Police Clinic held at the Neighbourhood House in Dandenong will allow residents to voice their opinions to local police.
Senior Sergeant Alan Dew said he hoped the meeting would strengthen relations between police and the public.
“This is an attempt by police to make us more accessible to the community,” he said. “Some people are intimidated to come into the stations, so by holding the meetings at the Neighbourhood House, it gives police the chance to address their concerns.”
Snr Sgt Dew said there was often a negative view of police, giving out speeding fines and traffic offences.
“We can explain to them why we do certain things and gauge what the community concerns are.”
He said he hoped a trust would develop from the meetings, especially since the same two officers, a Senior Sergeant and a Senior Constable, would always be there.
“Senior Sergeant Ian Pregnall will be one of the officers that will always attend,” he said. “We want to offer some continuity to the meetings.”
Those who attend the meetings will be able to discuss issues affecting their neighbourhood, including hooning, graffiti, safety and other concerns.
Snr Sgt Dew said the Dandenong police station received letters of concern and felt this is the best way to address the issues.
“This has never happened in Dandenong before, but depending on its success, we are looking at holding a meeting in each area of Greater Dandenong every two months.”
He called on residents to attend one of the meetings on Tuesday 3 March from 1.30pm to 3pm, or from 7pm until 8.30pm.
“We will hold two meeting times for the first month and this will determine which time suits best for the following meetings,” he said. “It is a great opportunity for locals to speak with police.”
The meeting will be held at Dandenong Neighbourhood House, 34 King Street, Dandenong.