INVESTING IN THE COMMUNITY
Community engagement is part of the Arlington Police Department ’ s DNA . Without the support , trust , and partnership of community members , the department can ’ t effectively do its job – which is why APD employees make a concerted effort to build positive relationships with the public .
In 2023 , the department continued to build upon several successful programs . Coffee with a Cop saw multiple new coffee houses and restaurants partnering with APD to host events . APD officers and leaders visited additional barbershops as part of the “ Shop Talk ” initiative , which promotes officers going out into community spaces to meet with residents . Employees forged stronger bonds with local faith-based organizations through the department ’ s One Congregation One Precinct ( ONECop ) program .
The department also worked to blaze new trails and look for additional , creative ways to engage with the community such as lunch with cops , apartment complex game nights , an Easter Fling , elementary school fun fest at Butler Elementary , and a presentation to Cub Scout Pack 378 ( Boy Scouts ). APD also participated in a youth baseball practice with North Arlington Little League , Trunk-or-Treats at Wimbish and Kooken Elementary Schools , a fall festival at Ellis Elementary School , and Career Day at Jones Academy .
In 2023 , APD partnered with the Boys & Girls Clubs and Six Flags Over Texas for “ Coasters with Cops ”, which gave dozens of local kids the opportunity to spend the day at Six Flags and ride rides with APD employees .
North District officers developed a relationship with the Big Brothers Big Sisters organization and worked with Arlington ISD ’ s Dan Dipert Career & Technical Center to host a cooking class for the kids and officers .
The department was awarded a grant from the U . S . Conference of Mayors & Target to purchase a gaming vehicle that employees will be able to take to community events and neighborhoods and connect with residents through video games . The truck is expected to make its debut later in 2024 .
24 | 2023 Annual Report