SAGINAW (WJRT) -
(02/09/12) - In 2011, Gov. Rick Snyder called for consolidation between law enforcement agencies. Two local departments are already doing that, and making a big impact on crime.
Michigan State Police troopers who are assigned exclusively to the city of Saginaw, will now begin their shift at the Saginaw Police Department.
Deputy Chief Brian Lipe said when they first heard about the Bridgeport Post closing, they jumped at the idea to house MSP troopers. "We don't want them any further away than they already are.
In 2006, as part of an all out effort to reduce violent crime in Saginaw, the Michigan Police put dedicated patrols inside the city. They've been there ever since and now they're even closer. "They've done a great job with helping us curb crime, making this a safer city," Lipe said.
"You can't put a price on what you prevent, it's not something you can put a number. I believe they are thankful for us to be here to help with that," said Michigan State Police, Sgt. Scott Painter.
Troopers have parking spots alongside Saginaw squad cars, they have their own lockers and show up for the city's roll call. Just last week, the troopers squashed a breaking and entering in progress.
"They were working that area with us, we're all on the same radio system, they got out on foot and caught some of the subjects and assisted us catching others," Lipe said.
"It's a perfect example of being right here," added Painter.
Gov. Snyder announced Thursday his $50 million commitment to law enforcement and that's something the officers will gladly accept.
"It's fantastic. We have lost so much money in profit sharing. If we can get some of that money back to get us back to get more officers, that would be great," Lipe said.
"The fact that he is backing us financially, seeing what we need out here on the road, it's great to see," Painter said.
Law enforcement says you can expect more of these types of collaborations in the future.
