Continuing in their efforts to build positive relationships with the public, the Logan County Sheriff’s Office held a back-to-school event at TP Bowling Lanes in Bellefontaine ion Saturday. Over 100 men, women and children showed up for an afternoon of free bowling. The LCSO also handed out school supplies — bookbags, folders, pencils and pencil holders.
Sarah Blair, an LCSO 911 operator, has taken charge of planning and organizing these community outreach events. She said, “It’s a chance to influence a small child in a way that will impact future generations in five to 10 years.”
Sheriff Randy Dodds agreed, seeing it as a great opportunity to make a difference. “When you know someone in the office,” he said, “you’ll feel more comfortable asking for that person.”
Though the sheriff was initially concerned about the need to have security officers at the local schools, he’s come to see the benefit, and now considers it a uniquely positive experience. That, along with monthly free events, gives them a stronger connection to the people — and, specifically, children — of Logan County.
Blair added, “If an officer has to deal with someone in a law enforcement situation, maybe that person won’t feel as intimidated and will be more apt to come with us. It builds trust with the community from a young age.”
Approximately 75 students grabbed the free school supplies at Saturday’s event. Many of the kids turned down the items because they already had what they needed and wanted to make sure other students had a chance to get those necessary materials.
“It was very kind of those kids,” Blair said.
Upcoming LCSO events include:
• Saturday, Sept. 10 at 2 p.m.—Behind the Badge Cruise-in, Belle Center.
• Sunday, Oct. 9 at 1 p.m.— Fall Fest, Marmon Valley Farm.
• Saturday, Oct. 22 (tentative date) at noon. — Trick-or-Treat, sheriff’s office, Bellefontaine
For more information, visit the Logan County Sheriff’s Office’s Facebook page (LoganSheriffOhio).
