DETROIT – Detroit's incoming police chief is getting a jump start even before his first day on the job.
James Craig officially starts Monday. But he made an appearance Thursday at a department press conference touting the success of a community policing pilot program that was launched last year.
Craig, a Detroit native, said his first focuses will be on cutting down gun crimes and boosting morale for his officers.
Craig said he's well aware of the financial troubles the city is facing and has been in conversations with Emergency Manager Kevyn Orr.
Craig said he's not sure yet on what the effects of Orr ending the contracts with the Detroit Police Lieutenants and Sergeants Association and AFSCME Council 25. But, Craig says, he wants to keep communication open and flowing with his officers about any concerns they have.
Craig said he wants to move officers out from behind desks and onto the streets.
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