BRYAN, TX — Bryan Police Department's beat system works because officers who make up the Neighborhood Enforcement Team (NET) are always available to help, not just during emergencies.
NET members have their own designated zone, eventually earning the community’s trust by building relationships.
”Building a communication or a relationship really with your community allows them to feel more comfortable,” said Mariah Marhofer.
Feeling more comfortable leads to trust and understanding.
”I mean that relationship and that bond you create with those people, obviously you get know them, it has a long-term goal and short-term impacts," said Kole Taylor, Bryan PD's Public Information Officer and former officer for NET Zone 5.
The benefits to officers are also worthwhile.
”It was a two-way street of communication,” explained Taylor. ”If you have an issue that’s not an emergency, you don’t feel like it’s a big enough deal to call 911 or even the non-emergency dispatch but it’s something that’s bothering you or you have questions about, obviously feel free to reach out. That’s what that unit is there for."
Team members also enjoy engaging with the community, meeting new people and offering a helping hand and open ear.
The NET team is divided into five zones across Bryan.
If you need to know who your NET officer is, feel free to call the Bryan Police Department.