UTICA - The trial of Wesley Molina-Cirino brought back some very painful memories of the night Officer Thomas Lindsey was shot and killed in the line of duty.

Now, almost a year after his death, we want to know: are police officers safer on the streets?

Public Safety Commissioner Dan LaBella says he and the city have made great strides to protect the men and women in blue. But that doesn't mean the efforts will subside.

Here's a recap of what has been implemented in the Utica Police Department.

Some patrols now have two officers in each car instead of one. LaBella says the Utica Common Council approved eight new officers in this year's budget, which will of course add extra security.

As far as tools and technology are concerned, cameras are now installed on the dashboard of many patrol cars, to keep an eye on all activity that goes on during a routine traffic stop.

And some officers now walk around with tasers to keep potentially violent criminals under control. But LaBella says what it comes down to is changing the community's perception and ideas of the officers.

"It all stems from the individuals that we deal with as police officers everyday," LaBella said. "Once that is overcome in time, I hope the job will be safer."

That sort of change will take longer to bring about than adding cameras to patrol cars or taser guns. LaBella also shared with us some of his other ideas for building a better relationship between the public and officers.