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ADDISON – Free community events at local Addison parks are held to encourage conversation between police officers and community members.
The Addison Police Department’s Community Response Unit, the Addison Park District and the Community Emergency Response Team have joined together to host the events.
The Community Response Unit uses uniformed officers to prevent crime, increase the chances of catching criminals and help police and citizens get to know each other better. This allows for more flexibility in responding to crime trends like speeding cars, burglaries and potential gang activity or drug investigations, without affecting services to the community, according to an Addison Police Department news release.
The Community Response Unit also uses a plain clothes/undercover approach that allows them to work closely with the community when receiving complaints about crime.
These event allow citizens to interact with police officers informally and bring up concerns they have. The most recent event was June 17 at Green Oaks Park with more than 150 residents. Food, activities and entertainment were provided to anyone who attended.
The next event will be from 6 to 8 p.m. at Highview Park, 1 S. Park St. in Addison.