In a scoop of community outreach, the Bloomington Police Department is setting aside cuffs and badges for ice cream cones and carnival games this summer. Their Cops and Cones event is designed to sweeten relations between law enforcement and Bloomington residents, providing a setting where cops can casually interact with citizens over frozen treats.
According to the City of Bloomington's official website, the event is part of a larger strategy to quickly build up trust and respect within the community. Cops and Cones will take place on select Tuesdays - June 4, July 16, and August 20, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Scoops Ice Cream, on 7700 W. Old Shakopee Road. Kids up to 18 years old will be treated to a free scoop of ice cream as part of the initiative.
It's not just about the ice cream. The police department emphasizes that these gatherings present a valuable opportunity "to open lines of communication, address relevant community issues, and foster positive relationships" within Bloomington, as per the City of Bloomington. Attendees are invited to engage in yard games, have a go at a carnival game, and get an up-close look inside a squad car.
