Page 35 - July2019 FOP Magazine

Community Policing Spotlight
Faith in the Fourth District
■ BY ERIKA WURST
Three years ago, when Officer Eric “Krunch” Davis took on the role of faith-based liaison in 004, participation from the community was minimal. But with persistence and convic- tion, the ordained minister changed that fact.
“Before, I’d have four or five people com- ing to my meetings,” Davis said. “But we’ve expanded and we’ve grown. I knocked on church doors. I do more recruitment.”
Now, between 30 and 40 people come to Davis’ meetings, and events like the district’s Faith in Action celebration are highly attend- ed and anticipated.
There are more than 130 churches in 004,
which allows for much-needed community engagement. With local religious leaders on his side, Davis has successfully meld- ed his police work with the faith community.
“We keep [religious leaders] in the loop with what’s going on in the district, so they know how to attack issues,” he said. “Word travels fast and there’s a certain level of unity when the pastors are linked to CAPS in the Fourth District.”
With the faith-based leaders in constant communication with Davis, officers are also better connected on a regular ba- sis. And the Faith in Action event is just one way the district is
making a concerted effort to reach out to nu- merous churches in the community. The cel- ebration provides a way to embrace positivity and a safe environment for youth and adults to gather and honor their faith and community.
It also created time to enjoy Rowan Park. In- famous for being a place of precarious activity, on May 24, however, the park was transformed into a much brighter setting. Along with the bounce houses and face painting, music and free food, there was a prayer table and box — for those who needed a boost of positivity in their lives.
The event also kicked off the start of the district’s weekly Positive Loitering and Prayer events, which pop up at various “hot spots” where gang and drug activity are rampant. Prayer and Christian music fill the air, while community resources and snacks are available to at- tendees. This gathering provides Davis yet another chance to
reach out in a positive way to residents.
He explained how this collaboration “allows us the opportu-
nity to engage them and let them know we understand what’s going on in their neighborhoods, and we’re trying to address it.” And there’s a bonus. “We’ve gotten lots of good information
from community members this way,” Davis said.
CHICAGO LODGE 7 ■ JULY 2019 35