Knocking on Doors Helps Build Safer Communities

MIAMI – Personnel from the Law Enforcement Coordination and Community Outreach Section (LEC/COS) of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida recently joined numerous community partners for a Walking One Stop to assist residents of Miami’s Liberty City.

Walking One Stops originated in Miami-Dade County and partner community stakeholders with law enforcement to bring social and economic resources to neighborhoods that have experienced gun or gang violence. This particular area in Liberty City already has seen at least one homicide this year. Law enforcement strives to have a more visible presence in these areas so residents will know that police are there to serve.

During this Walking One Stop, a large group of community partners and police officers broke into several groups to cover a large apartment complex. They knocked on doors and reached more than 30 families.

“Thank you for coming out,” said a 74-year-old resident. “I want my medical equipment fixed and I need my oxygen; that’s why I’m breathing like this.”

She was assured that someone would contact her within 48 hours.

“It’s about doing what we can to make a difference in peoples’ lives,” said Law Enforcement Coordination Specialist Mark McKinney, LEC/COS. “Some of our most vulnerable residents can go unnoticed and not get the help they need. But these walks lead to tangible results.”

Results like employment. At a previous Walking One Stop, many residents wanted help finding jobs. Walking One Stop partners were able to get nearly half of them employed. At this most recent one, a Mobile Career Assistance Center was parked down the block from the apartments to help job seekers.

It comes down to trust and building relationships. Community stakeholders hope that by frequently hosting these walks, residents will feel empowered to make their communities better.

An officer recounted a previous walk in which a young resident opened the door but didn’t want to be seen talking to police. However, he told officers he would reach out if they left a contact card.  

“It’s a partnership between the community and law enforcement,” said Community Outreach Specialist and former police officer Corey Mackay, LEC/COS. “Being more approachable and having positive contact with the community builds trust and helps save lives.”

In addition to local partners, law enforcement personnel from both Philadelphia and the country of Denmark participated in the walk to learn how to implement Walking One Stops in their communities.

“We’re gathering information and getting inspired to learn techniques and methods to reduce gang violence throughout Denmark,” said a Danish police officer following his first walk.

Walking One Stops are a testament to the power of outreach. They are an example of what can happen when law enforcement, community stakeholders, and residents come together.

Law Enforcement Coordination Specialist Mark McKinney, Law Enforcement Coordination and Community Outreach Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida, knocks on doors at a Liberty City apartment complex during a recent Walking One Stop.

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