Pride prevents crime at opening of Michigan Central Station

The grand opening of Michigan Central Station on Thursday was epic, that’s for sure.

Its opening after more than 30 years of vacancy was a historic testament to the pride Detroiters feel for their city. And according to Detroit Police Chief James White, it showed the impact community pride can have on crime: As of Saturday afternoon, there had been no arrests and no significant incidents.

From a public safety and community policing perspective, White called the opening “fantastic.”

“I couldn’t be prouder of the men and women of the Detroit Police Department,” White said. “I have to say that. I know it seems like I have to, but I mean it from the bottom of my heart.”

The grand opening of the historic station drew thousands to celebrate and watch Detroit legends such as Diana Ross, Jack White, Eminem and Big Sean perform. White said his department has developed a strategy that balances police presence to deter crime and citizen engagement in a way that is neither intrusive nor creates the impression that there is too much police presence.