WPD increases foot patrols in high crime areas

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — As you are out and about you may notice more police officers walking around parts of Wilmington.

Officers say last month the department increased foot patrols in the high crime areas of the city.

“A lot of times when people start seeing us out, they’ll talk to us,” said Officer Michael Scott. “When people know that they’re doing something wrong they’ll leave the area and they wont come back.”

Scott says there are four officers that patrol on foot seven days a week, and other officer assigned to community events. He says some days they walk up to four miles covering everywhere from Dawson Street, to 3rd Street, and over to Market Street.

“No one ever calls the police to say ‘Oh I am having a good day today.’  You call us on the worse days. Instead of calling us on your worst day we can see you out in your yard (and say) ‘Hey. How are you doing? Are you having a good day?'” Scott said.

Officers work in pairs. His partner, Officer Melissa Harrison said they are creating relationships in the community, something she hopes to see develop further.

“I am hoping as the community sees us out and around they will realize we’re here for them and we are very approachable,” she said.

Officers also use bicycles, segways, and ATVs for patrols.