Police expand community outreach with cadet and neighborhood programs

The Belize Police Department has carried out several community-outreach activities in Belize City, targeting both residents and young members of its cadet programme.  On Wednesday, officers attached to Precinct Three and the Community Oriented Policing Unit conducted their weekly meet-and-greet exercise along St. Joseph Street and Baymen Avenue. The operation was led by Deputy Officer Commanding Operations, Assistant Superintendent Sheria Nicholas.  Officers visited residents to hear their concerns and discuss ways of improving cooperation between the police and the community. According to the department, residents welcomed the continued police presence, while few concerns were raised during the exercise.  Meanwhile, twelve cadets participated in a presentation on puberty and personal hygiene at the Lopez Mateo Booth Basketball Court on Tuesday. The session was conducted by representatives of the Belize Family Life Association, including Ysella Coc and Angelique Reyes.  The discussion addressed the physical, emotional and social changes associated with puberty, as well as the importance of maintaining proper hygiene during adolescence. A question-and-answer segment was also held, with prizes awarded to participating cadets.  Also on Tuesday, Community Oriented Policing Officer Corporal Rosalie Sutherland facilitated an arts-and-crafts session for eleven cadets at the Lopez Mateo Booth. Participants created and decorated pencil holders while working together and assisting one another.  Police say the activities were intended to promote creativity, cooperation and personal development among the cadets, while the meet-and-greet exercise sought to strengthen communication with residents.