After the winter break that began in December, the Clean Sweep program is once again springing into action.
Clean Sweep is one of the Great Bend Police Department’s outreach projects. It is a partnership with Municipal Court and individuals facing traffic violations or misdemeanor charges.
These individuals are serving time on probation and/or choosing to perform community service in lieu of paying a fine.
“We took a break from Clean Sweep for about three months because it was more difficult to get volunteers and to keep people motivated when it was so brutally cold,” Police Chief Steve Haulmark said. “But we are glad to start up again for a couple of reasons.
“Clean Sweep provides an alternative to paying a fine, which some people have difficulty managing. And more important, it allows them an opportunity to help in their community.”
Police department staff members accompany the individuals to locations that have been identified as being a nuisance because of accumulated trash and debris. “We work together to remove the blight,” Haulmark commented.
Evidence-based analysis indicates when these individuals are engaged in their community, they are less likely to re-offend, Haulmark noted. In addition, Clean Sweep allows these individuals a chance to build a rapport with law-enforcement officers.
“We are kind of addressing the broken-window theory,” Haulmark explained. “This means that when people see a blight on the community, such as broken windows, it can result in the feeling that the area is unsafe.
“If the problem is not addressed, the area could then become the site of more serious crimes because people might think no one cares.”
Evidence-based policing offers a practical solution that balances public safety, community-service needs, available funds and taxpayers’ expectations, the police chief pointed out.
“It blends the science of controlling crime and disorder with the principles of community policing and problem solving,” he said.
More outreach
Another outreach program is a partnership between the police department, USD 428 and Pizza Hut, which donates pizzas every Friday to elementary schools.
“On a rotating basis, we have lunch with students selected by teachers,” Haulmark said. “We are often asked to give presentations to youngsters both in schools and other outlets, which we are happy to do.
“These special occasions give young people the opportunity to interact with police officers in a fun, non-intimidating way.”
Another program makes police available to passersby at locations such as Dillons and Walmart.
“Again, this is a non-confrontational opportunity to talk with people who have questions about law enforcement or city government but don’t know who to ask,” Haulmark said.
Officer Christian Rivas is usually one of the officers who attends these events. Rivas used to work full-time at the police department but now oversees the Criminal Justice Program at Barton Community College. He has remained at the department on a part-time basis.
“Christian is bi-lingual, which helps to bridge some gaps during his conversations with the public,” Haulmark said. “We always look forward to building relationships with our neighbors.
“We frequently hear from people who think this is a great idea; we always have good interactions with them.”
