FERGUSON, Mo. (First Alert 4) – Ferguson Police Chief Troy Doyle drove his police vehicle through the city on Tuesday but did not want to go to a crime scene.

He drove around to help rebuild community spirit.

“Gives us an opportunity to engage with our community,” Doyle said. “Talk about the issues that are going on in our community.”

Doyle stopped at three neighborhoods for this year’s National Night Out, each with a unique feel. This included small gatherings with pleasant small talk.

The residents who met him for the first time quickly gained respect.

“Just helps build a relationship, they’re transparent and that’s something we need in the police department,” said resident Charlotte J.

He also stopped by a neighborhood meeting in the park, where residents asked him about everyday issues.

This also came less than two months after Officer Travis Brown suffered a brain injury during a protest. As Brown slowly recovers, Doyle said officers like him are putting their lives on the line every day, often for strangers.

“Travis Brown was one of those people who, unfortunately or fortunately, depending on how you look at it, did this selflessly, but this is another opportunity to emphasize the importance of what we do every day,” Doyle said.

Ferguson police also want to show that child officers are not people to be afraid of, and residents, young and old, are impressed.

“This is the first year they have initiated this special night,” Benner said.

Jerry Benner hosted this party in his backyard pavilion and has seen many police chiefs in his 80 years as a Ferguson resident.

“I’ve seen a lot of the history of Ferguson and I think Ferguson is making the right turn and he’s the right person to do it,” Benner said.

Doyle also says the department is now 80% staffed, a significant increase since he took office last year, and that about a half-dozen people will soon be new Ferguson officers. The residents were happy to hear that.

Copyright 2024 KMOV. All rights reserved.