Community Show Appreciation for Neighbourhood Police Presence
Plagued by gun violence recently, residents in the Pittsboro/Orpington Complex welcomed increase police presence in their community.
To mark the first anniversary of Romando Bailey’s shooting murder that sparked a series of gun violence between rival neighbourhoods in 23 Division, officers from the Major Crime Unit (MCU) attended the complex and connected with family members.
“Our officers were advised by the family that a large gathering of family and friends was going to take place and there were safety concerns,” said Superintendent Ron Taverner.
Detectives Bronagh Fynes and John Cilis of the Division’s MCU passed on this information to Primary Response and Neighbourhood Community Units.
Staff Sergeant Gavin Janz and Sergeants Art Balaga and Steven Delottinville of the Neighbourhood Community Unit connected with their MCU and implemented a plan of action.
A marked scout car was placed at the entrance of the Orpington Crescent Complex and officers were staged within the Pittsboro/Orpington area.
In addition, officers were detailed to patrol and provide a presence within the Jamestown Crescent area and 1800 Martingrove Rd. area.
Between July 19 and 21, numerous gatherings took place within the Pittsboro/Orpington area and the Jamestown Complex.
As a result of the 23 Division officers’ diligence and hardwork, there were no incidents.
“I am very proud of our officers who were totally engaged with the community,” said Taverner. “I want to thank the community who welcomed us and everything worked out positively.”
To show their appreciation, Bailey’s family attended 23 Division on July 21 to express their appreciation.
They presented the Division with a bouquet of flowers.
“It is so refreshing when we do something right to engage the community and they show their appreciation,” said Neighbourhood Officer Constable Joaquim Rego. “We have a vested interest in their safety. They want us to be in their community, but many of them don’t know how to express that desire.”
