Philadelphia District Attorney Holds Summer Community Walk In Northern Liberties
By Diana Rocco
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – Philadelphia District Attorney Seth Williams is hitting the streets, reaching out to the community.
"To help neighbors feel safer, to help train them, talk to them about ways that we can prevent crime," said Williams.
Improving community relations and making neighbors feel safe was the focus of the District Attorney's community walk through Northern Liberties Wednesday. He was shaking hands and talking to neighbors.
"What happened in Ferguson, what happened in Staten Island, what happened of course in Baltimore, we don't want that to happen in Philadelphia and that doesn't happen by just reacting when there's a crisis. We're trying to be a presence in Philadelphia, in all of our communities every day," said Williams.
District Attorney Seth Williams lead a team of assistant district attorneys. They were joined by the Philadelphia Police Department and community leaders as they walked through the Piazza and restaurants throughout the area, asking people about their concerns and letting them know they're at work.
"It's good, it's good," said one resident.
"The crime rate in Northern Liberties has been increasing, so I feel like safety is an issue around this area," said Nhi Ngyan.
"I think he's doing a terrific job, he's just a good DA, a good attorney, and a nice human being all around," said neighbor Angel Ortiz.
This is the third of its kind. Several weeks ago Williams lead a walk through West Philadelphia where he was met with mixed reaction.
"We have some people who are happy to see us. Who wants us to sing happy birthday to their kids on their birthdays when we we're walking through West Philadelphia. We had some corner boys who didn't want to be on TV with me because they thought people would think they were snitches," said Williams.
The District Attorney says while the feedback has not always been positive, he still wants to hear what people have to say. There are three more community walks planned in neighborhoods throughout the city in the coming weeks.
