Community policing meeting brings Bellevue Chopin and Petite Savanne residents together

The BPP Community Shield on Thursday convened a community policing forum focused on improving cooperation between residents and law enforcement while tackling ongoing concerns affecting the communities of Bellevue Chopin and Petite Savanne in Dominica.

In a statement shared on social media, the Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force said the gathering brought together residents, police personnel, community representatives, business operators, church leaders, and young people to engage in open discussions about challenges facing the area and possible ways to address them collectively.

Reportedly, the main concerns raised during the meeting were the theft of agricultural crops and produce, traffic problems in the New Settlement community, and excessive noise caused by motorcycles and scooters fitted with modified silencers. Participants also discussed the issue of young people openly smoking marijuana in public areas, inadequate street lighting, and the presence of abandoned vehicles within the communities.

According to the statement, attendees also examined a number of preventative and community-based responses aimed at improving safety and community wellbeing. These included increased police patrols, expanded youth sporting programmes, stronger cooperation between residents and law enforcement, and greater public awareness initiatives. Plans for a Father’s Day sporting activity to be organized in collaboration with the Village Council were also discussed.

“A special thank you to all residents and stakeholders who took time out of their busy schedules to attend and contribute to meaningful discussions,” the statement added. “Together, we are building safer, stronger, and more united communities.”

The Community Policing Initiative of the Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force said it continues to focus on strengthening public trust, improving partnerships with communities, and reducing fear of crime through continued engagement with residents.