Created: 2/26/2009 11:29:59 PM 
JACKSONVILLE, FL -- Jacksonville Sheriff's officers went door-to-door this afternoon on the Eastside, but they weren't investigating a crime.
The walk through the neighborhood this afternoon is an effort to build rapport between police and neighbors.
Sheriff John Rutherford wants people in this neighborhood to know that the officers aren't here to simply make arrests.
"It's not about coming into a neighborhood and putting the bad guys in jail. You have to engage in prevention and intervention programs to help the community solve problems," said Sheriff John Rutherford, who fielded questions and concerns from anyone.
Neighbors seemed pleased with the progress made in the past year and a half.
A Police Athletics League center for after school programs has been built. Right around the corner, a former drug house has been turned into a JSO Zone One Stop Station.
JSO is also partnering with Fresh Ministries, a non-profit that is building new homes in the area, and reaching out to children. The organization's founder, Dr. Robert Lee, and staff joined the walk.
"It's very, very good," Julie Floyd says of the efforts.
Floyd has lived her entire life on the Eastside.
"It's a lot of drug activity, shootings and so forth. We need a little help," Floyd said.
She says the Sheriff's walks seem to be a big step in the right direction, especially when it comes to children.
"It's good for the kids. I tell my grandkids not to be afraid of the police, because they're your friend," she said.
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