PRESS RELEASE

August 3, 2004

Over the past weeks, members of the Elyria Police Department have met with various groups of citizens to gather input regarding neighborhood issues. Of particular concern are the problems being reported by members of the neighborhoods that include East Avenue, Middle Avenue, West Avenue, and the streets that run between them. Following a meeting that was held at the South Recreation Park on July 28^th, it has been determined that the course of action that will best serve to address the problems brought forth will be a coordinated effort between the members of the neighborhoods involved and a group of COP (Community Oriented Police) officers specifically assigned to work in those neighborhoods.

Starting the week of August 9^th, a group of COP officers, under the direction of Lt. Michael Dussel and Sgt. Ryan Warfield, will be assigned to address the concerns brought forth at the neighborhood meetings. The officers will work closely with the members of the neighborhoods in order to identify the source of the neighborhood problems and develop a plan to work to resolve them. But, for this group effort to work, input from the residents in the neighborhoods is essential.

Although the COPS officers will be visible and active in the area, the Elyria Police Department is asking all residents of the area to be diligent in watching for and reporting events that take place around the neighborhoods. Residents with concerns can contact Lt. Dussel at (440) 326-1309, or they can approach any of the COPS officers that they see working in their neighborhoods. By working together, we can make a difference.

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Michael Medders

Chief of Police