Carson City Sheriff’s Office will host the 7th Annual Cops and Kids Sheriff’s Open House safety, crime and substance abuse awareness fair on Saturday, May 22, from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the Carson City Sheriff’s Office, 911 E. Musser Street, Carson City.

Cops and Kids Sheriff’s Open House was started by Sheriff Ken Furlong as part of the community policing efforts implemented by his administration.
Cops and Kids Sheriffs Open House is designed to:

— Build positive relationships between law enforcement, youth and citizens
— Increase awareness about ways to prevent crime, substance abuse, violence and gangs
— Allow youth the opportunity to meet positive role models and participate in positive alternative activities.

This year's special guest will be Miss Nevada USA 2010 Julianna Erdesz who will be on site to participate in the festivities and meet children. Interacting with youth gives them a sense of belonging and ownership both with the sheriff’s office and with the community. Youth follow our example, therefore this is the perfect time for divisions and departments to come together and model the integrity of law enforcement and public safety set forth in the department's ethics and code of conduct.

“As we continue to build positive relationships with our youth, it is important to realize the strength of bond established at very early ages. For a young boy or girl to be able to identify with an officer/deputy by first name, barriers are reduced and trust with confidence is built,” said Sheriff Furlong.

Budgets are tight. Many of the services and materials are funded by local businesses and a grant through the Bureau of Justice Assistance. This event began in an effort to give back to the community and gained so much community support that sponsors stepped in to defray costs.

Grocery Outlet, Kemp’s Fun Jumpers, Benson’s Feed, Economy Speed Press and Dan Kimm Rock It Productions all give or provide services at minimum cost. The result is free activities to learn and have fun, free hot dogs and beverages while supplies last, and prizes for youth who complete many of the activities.

“These businesses give so much — it’s amazing to have the same sponsors come together and consistently partner with their Sheriff’s Office,” said Undersheriff Steve Albertsen.

Law enforcement officers will be displaying equipment and their various areas of expertise. Members of the Canine Unit, the Explorers, Search and Rescue, Reserves, Volunteers in Police Service, S.W.A.T., CSI Crime Lab, Evidence, Detention, Patrol and others will be on hand to meet the community and answer questions.

Additionally, the public can enjoy many hands-on activities from sheriff’s office employees, local agencies including the Partnership Carson City, Boys and Girls Club of Northern Nevada, Mentor Center, the Emblem Club, Ron Wood Family Resource Center, Stand Tall Don’t Fall, St. Teresa’s youth group, Karate for Kids, Victory Christian Center, and much more. This is an excellent opportunity for parents to find out about summer youth activities available in Carson City.

Carson City Sheriff’s Office is continuing the tradition of building strong positive bonds between law enforcement, youth and the community. We hope you join us! For more information call Lisa Davis at (775) 887-2500 ext. 41930.