Officers Use Soccer To Build Trust With Residents

Submitted by the Alpharetta Department of Public Safety

Alpharetta police officers on Tuesday distributed soccer balls and other toys to children in an attempt to build trust in a predominantly Hispanic neighborhood.

The toys were purchased by police officers and were well-received by children, who immediately set up goals and started playing ball.

“This is largely a Spanish-speaking neighborhood and we want these citizens to know they can call us when they have been victimized,” said Alpharetta police officer Jennifer Howard. “There is a tendency in some cultures for people to handle things themselves. We want people to report criminal activity and feel comfortable with us.”

The department hopes to continue the soccer ball program and make it a regular part of community outreach efforts.

Those interested in donating soccer balls or other toys can contact officer Jennifer Howard at 678-787-1476.

Photo credits: Alpharetta Department of Public Safety’s Facebook page

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