MIDDLETOWN – The City of Middletown’s community discussion on how to reinvent the police department began Tuesday night with a panel discussion.
Police Chief John Ewanciw outlined a series of programs the department offers to connect with the community.
Bishop James Rollins, co-chair along with Mayor Joseph DeStefano, said the programs may need more cohesiveness.
]“It sounds like a shotgun approach to me. I am saying be more targeted then we can identify what is working, and then when we hear cries for defunding as opposed to reallocate. So, then those dollars can go where they are actually making a difference,” he said.
Some participants questioned the limited number of minority members on the force. The chief noted applicants must qualify via a civil service exam as well as meet educational requirements.
