One objection I have with the forum is that too often we lean too much into the ideal world and not in reality. Would it be great to have foot patrols and not have a squad sitting there? Yes, that will be great!Is it amazing? It's a major lesson of the last few years. Police presence is both.It really is amazing how some people see the idling police car as threatening, and some see it as reassuring.
But I'm 100% with Alex. It shouldn't be a on the sidewalk and it shouldn't be idling. Seems like exactly where good old fashion foot patrol would make sense, but what do I know?
According to what I've read and the 4th Precinct Inspector who spoke at community meeting with Jeremiah Ellison explained how the staffing works. Basically each Precinct has only a few squads and if there is a shooting they need help from other Precincts and if there are two the city begins to run out of Patrols. It's been reported that the 4th Precinct at times has only had 4 Officers during the day shift.
So basically, we can't have officers walking around on foot. They need to be in a squad or bicycle so they can get where needed within their Precinct or another when something occurs.
Also has anyone ever seen a squad turned off when not at the Precinct? It's simply not done because of the electronics and many of you already know this.
If you want imaginary buildings or an imaginary world go play Sim City.