DURHAM — There's a new line of defense against crime on the streets of Durham. The Housing Authority and the Durham Police Deparment unveiled a new community policing squad Wednesday.

The 14 officers will ride bikes to ensure they have plenty of contact with the people they're trying to protect. Durham's acting police chief, H.K. Fletcher, says the officers are more than ready for the challenge.

"As I look back at these officers, I see some who have spent time in narcotics-- major crime investigators," Fletcher says. "There's plenty of experience, and I can assure you you're getting some top notch folks."

This is the first community policing initiative in Durham which places sworn officers into public housing communities.