"If I am going to police Arcata, I want to know your story."

Arcata hit the jackpot with Police Chief Brian Ahearn. I happen to see him unexpectedly in Old Town, introduced myself and we chatted over coffee. I appreciate Chief Ahearn taking the time to talk to me as well as others.



Chief Ahearn was in Eureka for a DHHS meeting regarding a collaborative effort involving several agencies.

"It is amazing what happens when you get out of a police car," said Chief Ahearn. The department has received positive feedback about the Community walks.

"I never minimize people's story," said Chief Ahearn. "If I am going to police Arcata, I want to know your story."

Chief Ahearn stressed direct access to the police chief, trust building on a regular basis and having the community feel comfortable with their police department is all a part of community policing.

On his community walks, Chief Ahearn goes and knocks on the door. He commended Arcata citizens on their welcoming him to their homes, even on a Sunday.

"It is not easy to see a police car parked in your neighborhood and have someone in uniform knock on your door when you haven't called the police." To put people at ease, Chief Ahearn diffuses the situation by stepping back after knocking on their door, he hands his card to the person door, explains why he is there.

His pride in his department and in Arcata was very evident as we talked about the recent photo with the two boys that returned a wallet. Chief Ahearn said that he was outside talking with a homeless person. He saw the two boys come up near the department looking around. He did not want interrupt the homeless person and wanted to give him full attention. The boys eventually approached Chief Ahearn and mentioned they had found the wallet. Chief Ahearn told the homeless man he would back in a few minutes. He took the boy inside, gave them a tour, they got a photo with one of the community officers. Chief Ahearn gave his card to the children and asked if one of their parents could call him. One of the reasons was that Chief Ahearn wanted to ask the permission to share this uplifting story and the photo.