KANSAS CITY, Kan. – The Kansas City, Kan., Police Department is using a new tool to build trust between police and community youth.
FOX4 on Thursday got an inside look at new equipment being deployed to communities to reach children as part of a solution to violence and crime.
KCK Police has announced a new mobile video game center. It is designed to bridge the gap between police and local youth.
“When you make friends in middle school, you make friends for life. I think police really want to focus on that age group,” said KCKPD Chief Karl Oakman.
From the six video screens to the eight consoles, everything is about fun and games, Oakman said.
Ten kids can play all kids games at once, including basketball, football, and racing.
“You won’t find Grand Theft Auto here,” Oakman said.
Before touching the joystick, officers will play a public broadcast where they talk to children about gun safety, violence and the dangers of fentanyl and opioids, Oakman said.
“So I think these are really important for our young people. So it’s important to explain to young people and make them really understand that this could be a solution to this problem that we have. I think so,” Oakman said.
Violent crime is down 30%, Oakman said on KCK. Last year, the city announced a 27% drop in violent crime.
He will focus on the most dangerous offenders and community engagement, giving credit to police for the work they have put into cracking down on them.
“I think the important thing is we have to start with the youth,” Oakman said. “It really changed my mindset and changed my focus.”
That’s one of the reasons they’re releasing trailers for mobile video games.
They hope to expand their reach through the youth of the community.
KCK’s Tommy Tomasic said officers will talk with the children about how to take control of their future.
“We’re here to help you get through your childhood, get through your teenage years as best you can, and be a good citizen,” Tomasic said. “Live your life and enjoy it. Don’t get caught up in a 10-minute lifestyle.”
KCK Police is holding its third annual event Peace Walk Saturday 10:45am The group meets at North 5th Street and Washington Avenue. There’s a new mobile video game trailer out there.
