Have you seen Philadelphia police officers riding around on Segways? The self-balancing vehicles, which sort of look like motorized scooters, cost about $5,500. Police began using them for patrols back in April. To be honest, I've been sort of skeptical about spending so much money on these things. After all, a bike seems just as effective and costs a heck of a lot less. Also, what's wrong with foot patrols? I can't imagine that the crime fighting ability of Segway riding officers is magnified enough to justify the cost.
That's why I was happy to read that Police Commissioner Charles Ramsey is looking to raise private money to pay for the Segways:
The Philadelphia Police Foundation, a nonprofit charity started in 1999 by Commissioner John F. Timoney as a way for business to provide tax-deductible support for law enforcement, has agreed to raise about $80,000 for the two-wheeled electric transporters, foundation president William C. Whitmore Jr. said yesterday.
I like the idea of private companies helping to subsidize public safety. It's great that businesses located in Philadelphia are doing their part to keep us safe. This has the added bonus of making companies feel invested in our city. After all, they are less likely to relocate if they've put up a lot of money to improve things in Philadelphia. Mayor Nutter has made clear that he expects the private sector to provide opportunities for ex-convicts and high school students through internships and entry level jobs. Providing funding for police equipment is a good addition to the list.
However, there was one part of the article that concerned me. Apparently the New York City police department relies on private funding for several specialty units. This includes a small task force that focuses on copyright infringement. The squad is funded by the fashion industry and companies that produce DVDs. Does anyone see anything wrong with this picture?
I really don't want law enforcement focusing on specific areas based on what gets funding from businesses. I'm all for using private donations to fund police work, but I guess I draw the line at allowing the donors to set the crime fighting agenda. The money raised should be spent on the areas prioritized by the police, not the companies ponying up the dough.
Comments (1)
Our terrific DA does exactly what you are concerned about, as far as I can tell. I am pretty sure that the insurance industry funds DA's to go after people who were registering their cars outside of Philly to pay lower rates. (And funded goofy commercials of Abraham threatening to go after people for it, too.)
Posted by Dan U-A | July 24, 2008 10:15 AM