DN Editorial: Ramsey's common-sense approach

AS REPORTS GO, the newly released five-year plan for policing the city is a lot like the commissioner who authored it: more common sense than flash. It's a smart approach that covers the basics rather than relying on whiz-bang technologies.

The core of the plan strengthens one of Commissioner Charles Ramsey's major initiatives, the Police Services Area (PSA), which divides police districts into smaller units to allow for more "personalized" policing: beat cops, foot patrols, and a stronger connection between police and the communities they serve.

So far, there's evidence this is a sound strategy: Since 2006, Part 1 crimes - homicides, rape, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, theft and car theft - have dropped by 10,000 (Ramsey arrived in 2008); the number is below 80,000 for the first time since 1978.

Part of a plan released yesterday will require police higher-ups to develop localized crime plans for neighborhoods, further strengthening the department's investment there.

This plan should not be underestimated just because of its simplicity. There are few police chiefs as thoughtful as Ramsey, and he has clearly articulated a new set of standards and expectations that have had an impact on crime and on the force. Ramsey has shifted the department from a lateral, top-down, heavily bureaucratic structure to a more connected organization.

That's not to say problems don't remain. An independent system that strengthens police accountability remains a priority, and this is still unaddressed by the current under-resourced Police Advisory Commission.

But at a time when we wring our hands over what's not working, and system failures, it's encouraging to acknowledge something that's working. And a relief to think we have a city leader whom we have paid to stay, instead of paying to leave.