In Hartsville, a day for kids, cops and ice cream
By Samantha Lyles, Staff Writer, slyles@newsandpress.net
Officers from the Hartsville Police Department took a break from patrolling the hot streets and joined local kids to share everybody’s favorite summertime treat – ice cream!
At the Hartsville Housing Authority on South Fifth Street, Lt. Tenyonde Richardson and his fellow police officers set up a buffet of favorite treats, with chocolate and vanilla and fruity flavors to suit every taste.
Kids could also play games set up in the lobby as they savored their free confections.
Richardson’s Community Outreach Division / Victim’s Advocate Services hosted the event, appropriately named “Ice Cream with a Cop.”
“It’s a great way to interact with the community. You can bring the kids out, break down barriers and bridge the gap between the community and the police,” said Richardson. He noted that while there’s never a bad time to enjoy ice cream, the frozen treats offered cops and kids alike a refreshing break from the summer heat.
HPD has other such programs designed to build stronger and more positive relationships with citizens through social interaction. Richardson said a recent food-centered event – the June 13 “Community Grill and Chill” hosted at the Middletown Apartments on Washington Street – had a positive reception and a very good turnout from residents.
Other upcoming programs include a “Back to School Bash” Aug. 14 at Hartsville High School and the National Night Out celebration Aug. 24 at Burry Park.
For more information, visit HPD on Facebook or call 843-383-3011.
Photos by Samantha Lyles
