Police officer Jim Davis, who is Muskegon County’s new community officer, has a reputation.

Like many police officers, some students see him as unfair and rude.

But as a new Problem Orientated Intelligence Neighborhood officer, one of his duties is to re-establish a relationship with students since Shores has not always had an officer in the halls.

"One goal I have is to promote drug awareness, to let students see instances of the harmful effects of drugs," said Davis, who became Shores liaison officer in September. "I also would like texting and driving to reduce. Students drive like maniacs when they text and drive, and they don’t even realize it."

Davis comes to Shores two to three times a week and makes presentations to classes about these risky behaviors.

He is also in charge of dealing with students who are causing problems.

"He is here for a matter of school safety and support for students and staff," principal Jen Bustard said. "He is here for our protection."

Davis can break students’ police officer stereotype if they talk to him personally. He will tell the story of working in management for 10 years, but at the age of 40, joined the police academy to try and make the town a better place.

"I wanted to help people," Davis said. "And it’s nice to be able to go into a school setting and spread a message like ‘Don’t text and drive.’ It’s nice to be positive."