A new resident police officer has moved into the East Bluff.
Peoria native Jerry James Jr. spent the past four years as a patrol officer. James said his new position allows him to get to know people outside of a bad situation and remind community members that he’s human, just like them.
“It gives me a chance to build a rapport or a relationship with that person and listen to them — not to just take the call, do what I can do immediately and then go my way,” he said. “This gives me a chance to go that extra mile.”
Before joining the Peoria Police Department, James spent over 10 years working with kids as a coach and substitute teacher at Richwoods High School, his alma mater. He’s also worked with at-risk youth at the Children's Home and Redeploy Services.
James said he’s very familiar with the area, having spent his childhood in a home just on the other side of Nebraska Ave. Still, he said, it may take some adjusting.
“The East Bluff is a big area. Just being able to try to get to every situation and person may prove a little challenging,” he said. “But on the other side of that, if I’m using my resources within my department and [the community organizations], I think that’s something we can reach.”
Peoria’s resident officer program started in 2013. James is one of four currently placed in neighborhoods throughout the city. He replaced long-time East Bluff resident officer Carey Hightower, who is nearing retirement.
James moved into the residence at 1839 N. Wisconsin Ave. — where he’ll stay for at least the next three years — earlier this month. He spent the first few weeks unpacking, meeting with city council and putting a name to a face with people in the neighborhood.
James said community members in need are welcome to visit him at the residence. His cell phone number is also posted on-site for neighbors to call or text.
