HPD COMMUNITY POLICING

The administrative arm of the Hattiesburg Police Department operates by a community policing philosophy to proactively partner with citizens to identify and solve problems. This unique way of building relationships through interactions with officers and the many different units operated by the department, help to create a strategic approach to reducing crime and disorder.

Common methods of community policing include:

• Encouraging the community to help prevent crime by providing advice, giving talks at schools, encouraging neighborhood watch groups, and a variety of other techniques
• Increased use of foot or cycle patrols.
• Increased officer accountability to the communities
• Clear communication between the police and the communities about their objectives and strategies
• Partnerships with other organizations such as government agencies, community members, nonprofit service providers, private businesses and the media

COFFEE WITH A COP

Every second Tuesday of the month, command staff and officers from HPD meet at a local coffee shop to talk with citizens about community issues and concerns. The department rotates to different coffee shops around town, providing an opportunity for residents in all areas to have a moment with an officer at their convenience.

CITIZEN’S ACADEMY

Periodically, HPD will enroll 15-20 citizens in a 3-week academy that gives an overview of the roles and responsibilities of the Hattiesburg Police Department. Topics include basic functions, including patrol, internal affairs, criminal investigations and traffic. They also get hands-on experience through demonstrations of the department’s K-9 and special teams’ activities and participate in firearm and driving demonstrations.

SPECIAL REQUESTS

If you or your organization would like to request a representative from HPD to attend an event or special function, please fill out the form below: