Rendell proposes more state funding for city cops
Gov. Ed Rendell proposed funding for 100 new Philadelphia police officers at a press conference in City Hall this morning, which would double the state's support of the city's police force.
Gov. Ed Rendell proposed funding for 100 new Philadelphia police officers at a press conference in City Hall this morning, which would double the state's support of the city's police force.
"The budget I will unveil tomorrow in Harrisburg will help make Philadelphia safer," Rendell said in a statement.
Philadelphia Police Commissioner Charles Ramsey said the 100 new officers would be used for patrol duties. Last week, Ramsey unveiled a new crime strategy anchored by his plan to shift 200 officers into street duty in the city's most violent neighborhoods.
The state legislature must approve Rendell's budget before Philadelphia can receive the new funding, and unless the allocation is renewed after three years the city would eventually have to find funds in its own budget to pay for the new officers.