SAN BERNARDINO – (INT) – Noting that the city is at a ‘crossroads’, Mayor John Valdivia and Acting Police Chief Eric McBride have announced a revised approach to fighting crime.

During an hour-long Town Hall televised on Facebook Thursday night, Valdivia said they will “tackle” crime by initiating a more localized approach to community-oriented policing.

Chief McBride said that five policing ‘districts’ will be established with sub-stations staffed 6-7 hours a day. Until now, McBride said no one was responsible for geographic areas. He said that monthly public meetings will be held in each district to get input on specific issues.

Both men vowed to reverse the city’s reputation for violent crime. There have been eight homicides in San Bernardino so far this year. Last year, there were 49.

Story Date: March 26, 2019