New crime fighting strategy in Norfolk

NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) - Norfolk's police chief announced a new plan to try to keep the streets safer.

Officer shifts in the Ghent area of the city will change from eight to 10 and 12-hour shifts. The department is also putting two officers in each patrol car instead of one, so they have more manpower when responding to calls.

The shift changes for officers will officially begin Nov. 12 for the police department's 3rd Patrol Division, according to police spokeswoman Karen Parker-Chesson. The plan was unveiled at a meeting on Wed., Oct. 17, attended by civic league members, city officials, Norfolk Public Schools officials and businesses.

"By going to a 12-hour shift we will be able to put police officers in permanent districts. The officers will work the same district every day which allows them to learn the community and the community will get used to see the same people as the shifts go through," Norfolk Police Chief Mike Goldsmith said.

The changes come after a rash of personal crimes in Ghent, including robbery and burglary.

After a few months, the plan will be reviewed by the police chief and command staff to determine if it should be implemented in other parts of the city.