City Reacting To Baltimore Police Shakeup
BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- Kevin Davis hits the ground running in his first day as Baltimore's interim police commissioner, but he's got big problems to contend with.
One of Davis' biggest battles will be gaining back the public's confidence in the police department. Some aren't convinced the change in leadership will make much difference.
Christie Ileto with community reaction.
Police, fire and a game of hoops. Thursday's block party is Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake's first public appearance since canning Commissioner Batts--a chance to show a united front with rank and file.
"I don't see how Commissioner Batts leaving is going to change the dynamics of anything," said Rev. Dr. Andre Humphrey, Gwynn Oak.
The shakeup 24 hours earlier slides Kevin Davis into a post that's marred with challenges.
The most pressing--an undercurrent of crime sweeping the city. Homicides are up, arrests are down.
"I want to see police in areas where they know the residents," said Lisa Mills, Resident Action Committee.
Mills expects a lot from the city's new top cop.
"You've got to communicate with Baltimore, you've got to interact with Baltimore. You can't do your job if you're not interacting with the public," she said.
Others are skeptical.
"The same things have been going on. He's not the first guy that was commissioner. It's kind of like every time you bring in a new face, it's still the same old thing," one resident said.
But what many residents are hoping is Davis gets enough time to make in an impact in a post that sees a high turnover.
Residents say they know change takes time. They're just hoping to see less crime and a restored relationship with officers.
