Making deep, positive connections with the community is Commander Richard Wiser’s goal as the new commander of the Chicago Police Department’s 22nd District. Wiser has been with the CPD for 29 years, in the Bureau of Patrol for 17 years and the Bureau of Detectives for 12, working in both property and violent crimes.
“My last two years, I led a team of detectives that conducted investigations city-wide; it was a pleasure working with such professional, skilled, and devoted sergeants and detectives. They should be very proud of the work they continue to do,” Wiser said.
Wiser is pleased with his team at the 22nd District and aims to build upon the great work they have done in the past. He seeks to encourage more personal engagement with the community.
“I have always believed that the police are part of the community. These officers are great people and engaging with the public can only improve relationships,” he said. “When conditions permit, I encourage foot patrol by our beat officers; I think we lose our connection to people by driving around in cars all day. Today’s world is becoming too dependent on technology and is losing the personal connection between people.”
Although he hopes for more face-to-face interactions, Wiser recognizes the important role social media plays in sharing information. The District plans to utilize Facebook and Twitter to alert the community of any information they need to be aware of.
As a Mount Greenwood resident for the last 30 years, and Beverly/Morgan Park before that, Wiser is well in-tune with the needs of Beverly/Morgan Park and Mount Greenwood.
“These communities have always been very strong; the people actively engage in community events and are very demanding of the services they should expect. This community is not afraid to call or complain when they are having issues; they do not accept disturbances or crime conditions as party of ‘city’ life, nor should they. We need good neighbors to tell us what and where the problems are. That is the partnership we have; without the community’s eyes and ears, we would be ineffective,” he said.
