Boynton Beach Insider

The Neighborhood Officer Program (NOP), launched in 2015, was designed to build strong, trusting relationships between officers and residents they serve. By embedding officers directly into the community, the program fosters meaningful partnerships, encourages collaborative problem-solving, and supports a better quality of life.

Thanks to its ongoing success, the BBCRA continues to invest in the NOP, recognizing its vital role in supporting growth, safety, and redevelopment across the area. This approach goes beyond traditional policing by creating genuine connections that help strengthen the fabric of our community.

We are excited to share that a new sergeant has recently joined the NOP, bringing a fresh perspective and a deep commitment to this vision.  To help everyone get to know him and understand his approach, we sat down for a brief Q&A with Sgt. Widy Jean.

What inspired you to pursue a career in law enforcement? And how long have you been with BBPD?

I was inspired to become a law enforcement due to a combination of early life experiences and influences of some key role models. The first of those role models were police officers in my own neighborhood. I grew up watching the tactical unit from the Broward County Sherriff’s Office doing their best to keep my neighborhood safe. I saw firsthand how the presence of steady, respectful officers could bring calm to difficult situations in my neighborhood. Those interactions made a lasting impression on me and subconsciously I made a life decision centered on serving my community. After 23 years in this profession, I am constantly reminded that this was one of my best life-changing decisions.

What does “community policing” mean to you?

Community Policing to me is far more than a strategy or a box to check on a departmental checklist. It is the foundation of meaningful, sustainable relationships with my community. A comprehensive community policing plan always leads to trust and genuine engagement in the community. I see community policing not just as a program, but the key component to find permanent solutions to the issues plaguing our community.

What do you hope to contribute to the NOP Program?

I hope to bring relationship-based policing to the forefront of the program. I believe neighborhood officers must be more than visible. They must be really known by the community they serve. I want residents and business owners to see the same dependable, approachable faces day after day, someone who listens, follows up, and becomes part of the neighborhood’s flow. By building trust slowly and consistently, I hope to create an environment where residents feel comfortable sharing their concerns with our officers before they turn into serious problems.

What are you most looking forward to in working with this community?

I am really looking forward to the opportunity to build meaningful, long-term relationships with the people who live and work in the community. After more than two decades in policing our City, I have learned that the most rewarding parts of the job come from genuine connections and earning trust.

How do you stay connected to the needs and concerns of the neighborhoods you serve?

I stay connected to the needs and concerns of the neighborhoods I serve by prioritizing active listening and continuous dialogue with members of the community. For me, connection is not achieved through occasional interactions. I have built all my community connections through daily engagement and genuine investment in the lives of residents.

What’s your approach to connecting with young people in the community?

I approach youth engagement with patience, respect, and real interest. I have learned that young people often judge officers not by what they say, but by how they treat them. For me, connecting with young people starts with demonstrating that I see them as individuals, not as problem to manage. In addition, I show them that I will be a consistent present in their neighborhood and not just show up when something is wrong.

What part of serving the community do you find most fulfilling?

The most fulfilling part of serving our community is witnessing the direct, human impact of the work that we do. What continues to motivate me isn’t the large operations or major cases I take part in, it’s usually the small, meaningful moments where I know for a fact that I made someone’s day safer and easier, even if it was with just a smile.

What’s the most wholesome or funny comment a kid has ever made to you while on duty?

Oh, that’s a good one. I had a kid ask me if my first name (Widy) was a real name or if it was just something I made up. I had a fun time explaining to him that most names are made up.

What’s your go-to coffee or snack on shift? 

My daily go-to for coffee is a medium hot black coffee from Dunkin, with some sugar. But there’s a specific flavor I sometimes crave, and I will only get it from Starbucks.

If you could have any superpower what would it be?

My superpower would be that of a police officer (just kidding). I would probably choose invisibility just so I can torment my siblings by tapping on their shoulders out of nowhere.