Proposed changes to Buffalo Police Detectives shifts had South District community members at odds. 

The change, which would have gone into effect on January 15, called for detectives in A District to be moved permanently to day side shifts. 

The change also would have eliminated one of two police captain positions in the district.

"The closest I got to an explanation on this is statistics," said Chris Scanlon, the South District’s representative for the Buffalo Common Council.

John Evans, president of the Buffalo Police Benevolent Association, said a grievance was filed with the union, putting all planned changes on hold until April.

"I think having afternoon detectives on will help fight the opioid crisis,” Evans said.

During a meeting Wednesday night, residents said they were concerned that downsizing in the city’s largest police district could result in increased criminal activity.

David Rivera, Common Council representative for the Niagara District and a former police officer, said he supports detectives working into the night.

“Crimes are committed during the evening hours and we know that is a fact,” he said. Council member David Rivera is a former police detective and represents the Niagara District. 

Council members within A District have asked to meet with Buffalo Police Commissioner Byron Lockwood to get a better understanding of why the shift change was proposed. 

That meeting is scheduled during council next Tuesday.