Eric Payne joined the Grand Rapids Police Department in 1987.
Over the course of almost 35 years, Payne worked his way to the top to serve as Grand Rapids Police Chief.
Payne says when he started, building relationships in the community was not a priority.
But it is now.
Payne says the department is more open to listening to the community and is in a better place.
He says he is proud of his time in the city as a Grand Rapids police officer.
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