Newton Police To Open Substation In City Hall

NEWTON, MA — There's a Newton Police Department substation in town. On Thursday, city hall will officially get its own police station in the rotunda area. It's part of a pilot program to make it easier for residents to interact with the police department, according to Newton Police Chief David MacDonald.

Officials hope that folks will come by to discuss neighborhood issues, report crimes and ask for information.

"The idea that a community’s well- being is at the heart of what we do is a core value of the
Newton police department," reads a press release. "As we strive for greater collaboration between citizens and the police, this substation will afford another method to reinforce our commitment to community engagement."

Two on-duty officers will be manning the substation every Thursday from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and every Tuesday evening from 5 p.m.-8 p.m.

"If it's very successful and it's generating a lot of interest, we may increase the number of officers," said Lt. Bruce Apotheker. Right now there is no end date in mind.

Because it is filled by on duty officers and the space is a room at city hall - there are no major costs associated, according to Apotheker.

Patch reporter Jenna Fisher can be reached at Jenna.Fisher@patch.com or by calling 617-942-0474. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram (@ReporterJenna).