Allegheny County police to assist Pittsburgh police in Downtown patrol efforts
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) — In response to increased crime and gun violence, Allegheny County police are helping the city's police force patrol Downtown.
The increased police presence comes at a time when Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey has promised to add additional city police.
Last week, Mayor Gainey promised to double the number of police officers Downtown and create a police precinct with a dedicated lieutenant and two sergeants, as well as hand-picked officers.
At the same time, Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald privately offered additional county officers and Monday in a statement, Allegheny County Police Superintendent Christopher Kearns confirmed patrols have begun.
"We are providing assistance with patrolling the downtown area. We are coordinating with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and Port Authority Police. Uniformed officers in marked patrol cars will be working in the central business district. The times and number of officers will vary," the statement said.
Aaron Ratliff of Broff's Diamond & Loan Co. said he would "love" an increased police presence.
"Having any police officers on the corners makes such a difference," Ratliff said. "The T station, the kids outside, there always seems to be something happening. And as soon as there's an office out there, a lot less happens."
Kearns said the officers will be highly visible Downtown.