Ideas for Building Positive Community and Police Relations

There is a growing emphasis on law enforcement agencies building relationships with the community they serve. Here in Lexington County, we are extremely grateful for the relationship we have with our community and for the unparalleled support we have from them.

We work hard to make sure the community knows we have their back and that we are serving with the overall goal of protecting them and their families. Many of the events we do provide the community an opportunity to meet us face to face and start those conversations that build good relationships. A few examples of events we participate in throughout the year:

Touch a Truck

This annual event is one of the highlights of our calendar. It targets mostly children, and is a time for the youngest members of the community to get an inside look at some of the trucks and vehicles they may see us, and other first responders, drive throughout their community. From patrol cars to boats, it gives children a hands-on experience to interact with deputies and ask any questions. These are often hosted in partnership with other local first responders and are a highly-favored event among families.

National Night Out

National Night Out enhances the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community. Furthermore, it provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances.

Each August, multiple National Night Out events are hosted throughout different neighborhoods, homes and parks in the community. Community members are invited to come play games, enjoy great food and really get to know the people who serve them every day.

Teaming Up with Local Businesses

Strengthening community relationships with not only the people, but other organizations and businesses in the area has been a key focus for our department. Whether it’s partnering with a local summer camp to show up and host a demonstration about fingerprinting, working with a local food bank on a fundraiser or showing up to throw the first pitch at the city’s local baseball game, we have done it. Seek out unique opportunities and don’t be afraid to try new ways of partnering with the community.

If you’re looking to join a department that holds the community at the heart of everything it does, the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department would love to have you join our family. You can learn more about us and our community at www.joinlcsd.com.