Residents ‘chop it up’ with Gulfport police

The Gulfport Police Department created a unique event that brings the public and the police department together to discuss issues and important topics within the community.

The barbershop is a way to bring people together from different backgrounds to hear opinions and have open conversations. So, to help bridge the gap between the Gulfport Police Department and the community, the police implemented a ‘Choppin’ with 12’ event with Seven Day Savage Ricky’s Barbershop. Owner Ricky Underwood said, “We just want people in the community to come out and see who they really are. Let them know you can go up and speak to them and count on them when you need help and speak to them about a crime. Don’t be afraid and come up and help police because you need help.”

Gulfport PD PIO Jason Ducre said, “There is a lot of misconception and we encourage anybody and everybody to come and ask these questions to us. We are here. Come meet some of the officers that patrol the area.”

Gulfport Police Department understands that they do not always have the right answers for every situation and by hosting ‘Choppin’ with 12’ it gives the public an opportunity to voice their opinions and concerns.

“We don’t do everything right and our community is our eyes and ears. So, we depend on them to say ‘hey have you tried it this way’ or ‘have you tried it that way’ and it’s about maintaining those relationships.”

Choppin’ with 12 also gives those interested in joining the department a chance to meet officers in a more relaxed setting. “We hope that this also show us in a positive light. Say hey come work for the Gulfport Police. We are just like our community. We put one pant leg on at a time.”

The police department wants to add more business partnerships and travel to different barbershops throughout the community to have discussions.