New Haven Cops Set To Resume Bike, Walking Beats, As Part Of New Community Support Task Force

NEW HAVEN, CT — Residents can soon expect to see cops walking and biking beats across the city, police announced Wednesday.

The move is part of the New Haven Police Department's new Community Support Task Force, an "initiative focused on addressing quality-of-life issues in the Elm City."

At a news briefing, Mayor Justin Elicker and Chief David Zannelli said the beats will supplement regular patrol officers and rotate through various areas of the city during both day and evening shifts.

"Bicycle and walking beats have long been a part of the New Haven Police Department’s community policing strategy," police said, adding that it "allows officers to connect with residents on a more personal level and build deeper trust and bonds within the community."

Officials admitted that in "recent years, these beats were unfortunately cut back due to staffing shortages," but noted that "recent improvements in staffing levels have allowed the department to begin reintroducing them again."

Zannelli said every district in town will see beat cops. Currently 21 beat officers are being certified, with 24 new recruits graduating next week.

At the briefing in Fair Haven, police noted that the department has 20 new bike-certified officers.

Fair Haven community organizers, residents, and business owners said they welcome walking and bike-riding cops, noting that community policing of this kind builds and restores trust.