Yurok PD hosts ‘Pizza with the Police’ in Klamath

The Yurok Tribal Police Department hosted an interagency "Pizza with the Police" event Wednesday at Margaret Keating Elementary School in Klamath.

It’s the first installment of what Police Chief Greg O'Rourke expects to be a long-term community outreach program.

"We're building a community-based police force,” said O’Rourke. “It's so important to reach out to everyone in our community and let them know we are all working together. Getting to meet kids in a positive environment helps build mutual understanding and a sense of trust.”

The police department provided the food and prizes, and talked about the job of law enforcement with students.

"Our officers are excited to be deeply involved in the community and be proactive,” said O’Rourke, “instead of just responding to calls. Being a real, helpful part of the lives of local residents is something our department plans to embrace, and this is a great step in achieving that goal."

He said "Pizza with the Police" events also are being scheduled in 2020 for Weitchpec and Hoopa Valley.