Police chief jumps into action to help a neighbor out

Hamtramck Police Chief Jamiel Altaheri (right) talks with a roofing contractor and his neighbor. Image by Detroit CBS

By Charles Sercombe
There are good neighbors, and then there are really good neighbors.
You can put Hamtramck Police Chief Jamiel Altaheri in the “really good” category.
How’s that?
Recently, the local CBS-TV news affiliate did a short feature on a situation involving the chief and his neighbor, Norbert Revels.
First, some background. For those who have not yet encountered the new chief – and is there anyone who still hasn’t? – he’s about the most personable guy you could meet.
While some might assume that someone from New York City would be the exact opposite, well, not this guy.
He is eternally upbeat, happy, and genuine. Heck, some local elected folks could learn a thing or two about how to be a people person from the chief, but then, it’s real for him; there’s no faking it.
And, the chief gets extra points for being the first police chief since the late Alex Shulhan to actually live here in the city.
Unsurprisingly, the chief made quick friends with his neighbor.
As CBS reporter Alysia Burgio pointed out, in introducing her story, this “showed how compassion can change a person’s life.”
The situation was, Revels’ roof was old and leaky. Despite saving and saving his money, he just couldn’t get near the estimated $10,000 cost to replace it.
That’s where the chief stepped in, deciding to lend a helping hand.
A local contractor, Ruben Gonzalez became involved, and he, too, got into the spirit.
“I believe in giving back,” he told the CBS reporter.
Long story made short, the job got done at no expense to Revels.
Chief Altaheri told CBS it’s not necessarily providing financial help to a neighbor or someone you know.
“Sometimes it’s just your words” that make a difference, he said. “Maybe you don’t have the money, but say something; things will happen.”
On various Hamtramck-centric Facebook pages, there has been nothing but praise.
“I sure hope he doesn’t leave our city,” said Susan Briskey, the owner of Suzy’s bar on Evaline.
And, in case anyone needs some handywork or a roof done, you can contact Gonzalez at (586) 804-4740.
Posted Sept. 20, 2024