State, federal officers to join YPD saturation patrols in high crime areas
YOUNGSTOWN - The Youngstown Police Department says it is enlisting the help of state and federal agencies in attempts to stem the rising tide of crime in city neighborhoods.
Mayor Jamael Tito Brown joined Police Chief Carl Davis for a Wednesday news conference where they announced a collaboration between city police, the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
Police say the other agencies will augment police to conduct saturation patrols and improve the quality of life in high-violence areas throughout the city.
Officials say the enhanced patrols are expected to begin this weekend. Their focus would not just be on drugs, but on all crimes that impact neighborhoods.
When asked about complaints from the patrol officer’s union that the city is missing the mark on recruiting more officers and offering competitive salaries, Mayor Brown responded by saying that the city is currently in negotiations with the union and his goal if make sure the police department is competitive with other agencies.
