SINA launches Quarterly Security Chief Meetings (Spring 2004)

On Wednesday, March 10, SINA took the first step in its strate­gic plan to institute quarterly security chief meetings. In their initial meeting, security representatives from SINA's member organizations, including CT Children's Medical Center, Hartford Hospital, Trinity College, met with SINA and Acting Chief of the Hartford Police Department Mark Pawlina to begin a dialogue about mutual concerns and solutions.

Chief Pawlina outlined some of the initiatives he has launched in hopes of enhancing the Police Department's capabilities. He explained the Department's recent focus on maintaining a high level of visibility in areas deemed as "Hot Spots." Emphasizing "Hot Spots" has helped minimize criminal activity in those areas.

The Chief acknowledged the importance of resident and merchant participation in helping identify "Hot Spots," and announced that the department will continue to seek this information by having area Community Service Officers attend community meetings. The Member Organizations' rep­resentatives responded by describing "Hot Spots" they have identified. The Chief noted these areas and offered updates and possible solutions, including camera surveillance.

To maintain consistent communication, the security chiefs will meet with South Hartford's South District Commander Lieutenant Achilles Rethis on a quarterly schedule.