Officer Jose Gonzalez has served with the Philadelphia Police Department for seven years, currently stationed at 17th and Montgomery Streets in the 22nd Police District, near Temple University’s campus. In a community grappling with gun violence and crime, a strong and trusted police presence is vital. Yet, for many, the relationship between law enforcement and the public is strained, shaped by high-profile incidents of police misconduct shared widely on social media.
These platforms amplify the troubling realities of police brutality and racial profiling, but also share moments of compassion and dedication from officers committed to protecting and uplifting their communities. Gonzalez represents the latter, acknowledging the systemic issues within policing and striving to rebuild trust by fostering genuine relationships with the people he serves.
Through initiatives that offer mentorship and educational opportunities, law enforcement is striving to strengthen its bond with the community and provide children with a productive environment. Gonzalez believes these efforts, though slow in showing results, are crucial to creating a safer and more connected North Philadelphia.
What do you think of the relationship between law enforcement and the community of North Philadelphia?
It’s a mixed feeling. I believe social media plays a big part in bridging that gap between law enforcement and community. It’s what people see online that can really affect how they view law enforcement. But there’s also bad apples and it makes us reflect on how we see ourselves and how the community sees us. It’s important to realize that everyone is not like that, though. We’re there to help the community and make it a better place.
Can you speak on any community outreach programs or events aimed at strengthening that relationship?
We do have something called the Police Athletic League, or PAL. It includes mentorships for experience, as well as educational and athletic programs for the kids. It’s focused on the youth in Philadelphia and building them a path to success. We also have town hall meetings to hear out people of the community. We have meetings and sometimes fundraisers. We try our best to make everyone feel safe and welcome.
Is the youth a focus when it comes to a strong relationship between police and community?
Yes. The youth is our future. And it’s sad to say, but the youth in this community are committing more crimes than they have before. You see it on the news. So, we try to keep them motivated and keep them in an environment where they aren’t influenced by negative activity.
Do you remember any specific event for young people to interact with the police?
We had a program called Guns Down, Gloves Up. They would set up a ring and boxing equipment like gloves and punching bags outside the station. The kids could use their time getting a workout in and hearing positivity and motivation from the officers working with them. Stuff like that is really important when it comes to the youth here.
So, you’ve worked here for seven years. Have you experienced any change or any differences in the community?
It’s a slow change. It’s a slow change and I do see it in the community, yeah. It takes time, but those fundraisers and programs do help us build on that relationship.
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