On Tuesday, May 2 the McPherson Public Library held an event where the community and law enforcement could come together to decorate and eat cupcakes. The goal for “Copcakes” is to create a better image of police officers. This was not the first time law enforcement has made an effort to build a more personal relationship with members of the community. It gives us the chance to ask the officers our burning questions.The officers were very friendly towards members of the community and made conversation that didn’t have to do with law enforcement. Making it apparent that they genuinely wanted to be there.

The officers at the McPherson Police Department take pride in keeping our community safe. They shared with the teens that they don’t enjoy punishing those who commit crimes, but it’s simply their job to enforce the law. One concern that the officers have is the negative perception. Hawkinson related the disciplining to parenting. “If i pull someone over for speeding and let them off with a warning, then how will they learn from it.” There would be higher crime rates.

The new chief Robert McClarty provided his staff with the safest equipment possible. Since his arrival the old paper system is now all online, allowing the McPherson P.D to be more efficient. Sg. “Mo” said her favorite thing about being in law enforcement is “ get to interact with kids of all ages from kindergarten to high school and make such an impact on their future.”