5 Shocking Facts About Detroit's 3rd Precinct: The History, The Commander, And The Historic Building That's Now A Co-Working Space
The Detroit Police Department's (DPD) 3rd Precinct is one of the most critical law enforcement divisions in the city, serving a dynamic area of Detroit, Michigan. As of late 2024, the precinct continues to be a central hub for community policing and crime reduction efforts, operating out of its facility on West Grand Boulevard. The precinct is not just a police station; it is a focal point for community relations, crime prevention, and the enforcement of local and state laws in its assigned patrol zone. This deep dive uncovers the current operational status, the leadership, and the surprising history of the precinct's former, landmark building.
Understanding the 3rd Precinct requires looking beyond the badge and into the neighborhoods it serves, the officers who patrol its streets, and the significant changes—both in location and strategy—it has undergone in recent years. The precinct's work is intrinsically linked to the city's ongoing resurgence, with its commanders and officers frequently engaging in high-profile community and security initiatives.
Commander Matthew Fulgenzi: A Profile in Leadership
The success of any police precinct is often a direct reflection of its leadership. The current commander of the Detroit Police Department’s 3rd Precinct is a key figure in the DPD's operational strategy. The precinct is currently led by Commander Matthew Fulgenzi, with Captain Shaun Dunning also serving in a key leadership role.
Professional Overview: Commander Matthew Fulgenzi
- Current Role: Police Commander, Detroit Police Department (DPD).
- Precinct Assignment: 3rd Precinct (2875 W. Grand Blvd, Detroit, MI 48202).
- Key Responsibilities: Overseeing daily operations, managing personnel, developing community policing strategies, and acting as a primary DPD spokesperson for incidents within the precinct's jurisdiction.
- Community Engagement: Commander Fulgenzi is known for his active participation in community relations council meetings, providing updates on local crime trends and addressing neighborhood concerns directly with residents.
- High-Profile Involvement: He has been a visible figure during major city events, including providing commentary on security plans for high-profile events like the NFL Draft and addressing significant public safety incidents, such as a shooting at the Rosa Parks Transit Center.
Commander Fulgenzi’s leadership is part of a broader DPD strategy focused on data-informed policing and fostering stronger ties with the community. His tenure emphasizes transparency and collaboration, which are crucial for maintaining public trust in the area.
The Current Hub: 2875 W. Grand Blvd
The operational center for the Detroit Police 3rd Precinct is located at 2875 W. Grand Blvd, Detroit, MI 48202. This facility serves as the headquarters for the officers and staff responsible for policing the precinct's district.
The precinct is a critical point of contact for the public, handling a variety of essential services and community functions:
- Police Reports: Citizens can file various police reports and obtain copies of incident reports.
- Community Meetings: The precinct frequently hosts Police/Community Relations Council Meetings, which are vital for local engagement and problem-solving, often featuring speakers on topics like marijuana updates or DWSD services.
- Contact Information: The main phone number for the precinct is (313) 596-1909.
The precinct's operational area is constantly monitored for crime trends. Recent data shared by the DPD indicates that crime reduction efforts are yielding positive results, with property crime showing a notable decrease in the areas covered by the 3rd Precinct.
The Historic Twist: The Former 3rd Precinct Building is Now a Co-Working Space
One of the most fascinating and unique aspects of the 3rd Precinct’s history is the fate of its former building. The original 3rd Precinct police station, a historic landmark, is no longer used by the DPD.
The original building, located at 2200 Hunt St., was a cornerstone of the community for decades. However, the Detroit Police Department consolidated several precincts into larger districts in 2005, leaving the historic structure vacant.
From Jail Cells to Office Desks: The Hunt Street Station
The vacant Hunt Street building was eventually transformed into a modern, creative co-working space. This repurposing is a powerful symbol of Detroit's revitalization and its commitment to preserving historic architecture while fostering new economic growth.
- Historic Landmark: The building was recognized for its historical significance and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980.
- Modern Use: It is now known as "Hunt Street Station," offering a unique environment for entrepreneurs, artists, and small businesses.
- Architectural Preservation: The renovation maintained the building's historic character, giving the new co-working space a distinctive atmosphere that pays homage to its past life as a law enforcement center.
The transformation of the former 3rd Precinct building at Hunt Street into a vibrant commercial hub is a prime example of adaptive reuse in Detroit, turning a piece of vacant police history into a modern center for creative arts and business.
The 3rd Precinct in the Context of Detroit Policing
The 3rd Precinct is one of the twelve precincts that make up the Detroit Police Department, which is responsible for policing the city's 139 square miles with over 2,500 officers. The precinct's work is integral to the DPD's city-wide strategy.
The geographical area covered by the 3rd Precinct is diverse, encompassing residential neighborhoods and commercial corridors. This requires officers to be highly adaptable in their approach to law enforcement, ranging from routine patrols to specialized response units.
Community and Operational Challenges
Policing in Detroit, including the 3rd Precinct, has historically faced challenges, including issues related to sanitation and conditions in holding cells, as noted in past reports. However, the DPD is continually working to address these issues and improve standards across all its facilities.
Moreover, the precinct's officers are on the front lines of public safety. Recent incidents, such as 3rd Precinct Scouts coming under fire in the area of Atkinson & Woodard, highlight the inherent dangers and the constant need for vigilance in their daily duties.
The precinct also plays a crucial role in the city's broader legal structure, interacting closely with the Third Judicial Circuit of Michigan, the largest circuit court in the state.
Key Entities and Contacts for the 3rd Precinct
The 3rd Precinct is deeply connected to the community it serves through various official and unofficial channels. Residents and interested parties can engage with the precinct through several key entities:
- Current Precinct Address: 2875 W. Grand Blvd, Detroit, MI 48202.
- Current Precinct Commander: Commander Matthew Fulgenzi.
- Captain: Captain Shaun Dunning.
- Community Engagement: The Police/Community Relations Council Meetings are a primary venue for dialogue and information exchange.
- Historical Site (Former Precinct): Hunt Street Station (2200 Hunt St.), which is now a co-working space and a National Register of Historic Places listing.
The Detroit Police Department's commitment to continuous improvement and community collaboration, exemplified by the 3rd Precinct's leadership and community outreach, is a central part of the city's ongoing efforts to enhance public safety and quality of life for all residents. The precinct remains a dynamic and essential component of Detroit's evolving landscape.
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