Morse rides along with Holyoke police

HOLYOKE, Mass. (WWLP) - Holyoke's Mayor Alex Morse wants to better understand the challenges the city's Police Department faces.

So Friday night, he strapped on a bulletproof vest and hopped into a cruiser for a ride along.
Detectives, undercover officers and patrol officers guided Morse through a typical Friday night police experience.

Morse told 22News tackling the city's crime problem is critical to attract new businesses and help residents thrive.

Friday night's ride-along was also part of the Mayor's effort to promote community policing.

Lt. Manuel Febo of Holyoke Police told 22News, “I think it's great. In 16 years I've never heard of a mayor coming on a ride along, unless I missed it. I think it's outstanding that he wants to come out here. It's Friday night, and we're going to make sure we go to every call and make sure he understands the challenges that we face sometimes.”

Mayor Morse expressed his confidence in the police force when asked if he was nervous Friday night. His reply? "Not really. Officer Febo will protect me."