Last night our Shawnee PD participated in the National Night Out. This is an event that is designed for members of the community to better familiarize themselves with the PD, and is a family friendly event.
There were various displays of equipment and officers from all sections of the department. There were also members of the command staff, administration and dispatchers there. Individuals that could answer and explain just about any question that a citizen had. Even the KHP showed up with their "convincer". The machine that makes a believer out of you about wearing a seat belt. Our newest K9 officers were there, Ryan Skinner and Grif. Grif is a dual functioning K9, patrol and explosive detection, and will join our other two K9s who are patrol and narcotic trained.
What was really encouraging was that each time an officer greeted a member of the community they shook their hand and introduced themselves by first and last name, without rank, from patrol officer to chief. Great way to get on a positive one on one with an individual.
There was a variety of food and beverages courtesy of a group of businesses and faith based sponsors, who also did the BBQing. Literature was available which covered various services offered by the department and also what people can do to make their environment safer.
The individual who was responsible for making sure everything went off as being fun, informational, and partnering was our CORE Officer, Roman Madrigal. The CORE Officer is responsible for taking the lead on various community outreach programs, and Roman's skills showed that he is the right man for that job. Well done.
A side note: there are still some openings for this years Citizen Police Academy. Click here to sign up. The class starts 9/8/16.
