Community policing contributes to crime decrease in Fort Myers neighborhood

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FORT MYERS, Fla. — Dunbar residents have noticed a positive change within the community since Fort Myers Police Chief Derrick Diggs took office in August.

A crime mapping website showed a nine percent decrease in violent crime from 90 days prior to Chief Diggs starting to 90 days after.

One Dunbar resident who wished to remain anonymous said she see Dunbar steadily improving.

“You can walk down the street and have no problem,” she said.

Eric Walker, another Dunbar resident and advocate for the community, said he’s pleased with the community’s progress.

“Fort Myers needs Fort Myers and it’s just going to take all of us to want peace in our community, to want better,” Walker said.

Fort Myers police installed cameras in the area and are engaging in more community outreach since Chief Diggs took office.

“I’ve seen them stop and talk to some of the young guys in the community, so that’s a plus right there,” Walker said.

While assaults are still the most common violent crime in the community, there is an estimated 13 percent overall decrease in crime since Chief Diggs took office.

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