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Lanier starts phase two of crime initiative
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Related Topics: WASHINGTON
WASHINGTON (Map, News) - D.C. Police Chief Cathy Lanier on Thursday launched the second phase of her summer crime initiative, intended to reduce summer juvenile arrests by providing supervised activities for youth.
Last weekend, 3,300 police officers worked overtime and made more than 600 arrests during the first phase of Lanier’s Summer of Safety Program.
“That is the only way I can say to these kids that are here today, 'I'm doing everything I can possibly do to make sure you have a safe summer,'” Lanier said.
With an arsenal of cheeseburgers, face paint and roller skates, the police department hosted four block parties to promote the ice-cream socials, swimming trips, soccer camps and movie nights that will be offered during the 73 days until school resumes.
The program will make a difference for children who were playing basketball and jumping in the inflatable Astro Jump at the Ward 8 block party, said Sandra Seegars, a member of the Advisory Neighborhood Commission.
“I think it will help them see something positive instead of what they see going on in the neighborhood,” Seegars said.
The D.C. Council also paid for 140 children to spend a week at Camp Brown, an overnight summer camp in Scotland, Md.
Trevon Tolver, 8, will attend summer camp for the first time, thanks to the scholarship. His mother, Shirelle Tolver, 29, said she thinks it will be a great time for Trevon and his sister, Tanaya Forté, 12.
For information about activities, call 202-IM-BORED, or visit the police department Web site at mpdc.dc.gov/sos.
