On a recent Friday night, Scranton police officers Olivia Muchal and Kyle Kemp were on patrol in downtown. They encountered a family from York visiting for a basketball tournament at the University of Scranton. The family was unsure of where to eat, so Muchal and Kemp jumped in with recommendations: burgers at Chef von & Mom, Thai cuisine at Thai Thai, or pub fare at The Backyard Ale House.
Charlotte Disney, whose granddaughter attends the university, expressed her gratitude for the visible police presence in the area, noting it creates a sense of safety. According to the officers, their presence helps deter crime. Kemp, who has over 20 years of experience, mentioned that crime rates in downtown Scranton have declined significantly since the early 2000s. Back then, bar fights were common during shifts; now, they are rare.
The Scranton Police Department adapts to changes in the community. After the pandemic, many people began heading home earlier, so the department adjusted their patrols accordingly. Muchal and Kemp have built trust with locals, making it easier for residents to voice their concerns. They believe community policing leads to lower crime rates.
In Wilkes-Barre, Police Lieutenant James Sheridan also sees the value in community engagement. He often visits Abide Coffee Shop and builds rapport with local customers. When talking about safety, he emphasizes that while it’s important for residents to be conscious of their surroundings, the downtown area is quite safe. Most crimes reported are non-violent, like retail theft, and often involve people who know each other rather than being random acts of violence.
Police Chief Thomas Carroll of Scranton echoing this sentiment, pointed out that crime rates didn’t rise despite an increase in the downtown population over the past few years. Of more than 14,000 reported incidents, many were non-emergent, stemming from police efforts to engage with the community rather than respond to actual crimes.
Carroll notes the effectiveness of surveillance technology, using mobile command centers during events to monitor activities and maintain safety. These tools help officers spot unusual behavior in crowds, ensuring a safer environment during events like La Festa Italiana.
Both police departments emphasize proactive engagement. They don’t wait for calls but actively reach out to businesses and residents. This approach fosters trust, making individuals feel comfortable sharing concerns.
Community members feel empowered too. Zubeen ‘Saeed, founder of Building Blocks Learning Centers, noted that Wilkes-Barre’s downtown is not just about brick-and-mortar; it’s a growing neighborhood. Efforts are also made to assist the unhoused who frequent public spaces. Many, Sheridan says, are simply enjoying the environment without causing harm.
Statistically speaking, the chance of becoming a victim of violent crime in downtown Wilkes-Barre is minimal. Lieutenant Sheridan highlighted that during concerts at Public Square, there were usually less than one arrest per event.
Both cities are changing and evolving, attracting more young professionals and retirees. Police officers are committed to providing safety and support. “If you need help, look for a policeman,” says Sheridan. Regular patrols and community interactions are key in preventing issues before they arise, maintaining an environment where people feel safe and connected.
For more insights on community policing and safety, visit the FBI’s Community Relations page here.
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