Local Police on Ambush: We Cannot Ignore What Happened

ROCK HILL, SC — Police around the state are more vigilant on patrols after another officer ambush in the U.S.

“A simple traffic stop or citizen encounter could turn turn bad or get violent,” said Capt. Mark Bollinger.

Capt. Bollinger has worked for Rock Hill Police Department for three decades and says patrols are more concerning than ever before.

“We’re getting a lot of citizens getting angrier than they have been in the past because we stop and talk to people,” said Capt. Bollinger. “If they would just slow down and listen to us for a second, they would know that we are answering a call for service.”

Monday, Rock Hill Police Chaplain Seth Crosby called for a prayer vigil to prevent any problem in Rock Hill.

“When I’m afraid that you might shoot me, and I’m afraid that you might shoot me, it creates a problem,” said Bishop Crosby. “That’s why we have to come together where there’s no fear on either side.”

NAACP and Mayor Pro Tem Ann Williamson were part of the crowd of citizens and police.

“I am proud of Rock Hill City’s police department,” said Williamson.

Capt. Bollinger says Rock Hill Police went to more than 300 community meetings last year so people could ask them questions. They allow anyone to ride along on patrols.

To find out how you can schedule a ride-along, click here.

He says recent police killings ar enot changing how they work security at protests or events.

“We cannot ignore what has happened, but we don’t to put it out in the forefront of or be undermining what the events about,” said Capt. Bollinger.