Question of the Week: Modesto's new police chief

We have a new police chief in Modesto. What would you suggest that his priorities should be?

Zachary Senn, home-schooled

The Modesto Police Department should focus less attention on persecuting citizens who are unable to take care of themselves. I've heard horrendous stories from homeless friends. Often, a stigma of violence and addiction is attached to those who have done nothing to earn it. Modesto is understandably trying the gentrify its downtown district, but at what cost to its impoverished citizens? The last thing needed is for Modesto's homeless and poor to be displaced yet again. Instead, the Modesto PD should place its efforts on locating and preventing actual crime.

Mark Borges, Freshman, Hughson High School

I would say that as long as everybody feels safe at night, then they're doing a good job.

Geoffrey Jacobs, Sophomore, Modesto Junior College

My advice for Chief Galen Carroll: Do your best to keep the police budget in order, see that the officers of the Modesto Police Department are well trained and suitable for the job, and enjoy your new position in the Central Valley!

Toshali Katyal, Sophomore, Modesto High School

First of all, I congratulate him for his new position. I believe he will prioritize the safety of families in Modesto as the holidays approach so everyone will have safe and happy holidays!

Julie Fogarty, Sophomore, Central Catholic High School

I suggest that he focus on whatever he thinks is important. Someone obviously trusts him to do a good job, so I'd say that he should just trust his instincts.

Abel Vargas, Junior, Davis High School

I think Modesto has to focus on traffic laws. The more and more I drive, the more accidents I see. I feel that if we can somehow put a stop to that, maybe we can have a safer environment, not just for drivers but pedestrians and bicyclists.

Rubani Virk, Junior, Pitman High School

Modesto's new police chief should especially focus on drugs among teens and underage drinking. An increasing number of teens have become involved in drugs and alcohol, which certainly needs to be prevented as soon as possible.

This question is answered by members of Teens in the Newsroom, a journalism program for area high school students.