Deputies Ticketing Kids For Doing the Right Thing
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two kids hugging with backpacks
Little boy and girl with their book bags
If a Collier deputy catches your children in the act this summer, they might just get a “ticket.” The Collier County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) is again participating in 7-Eleven’s Operation Chill, a program that aims to reduce crime and build rapport between kids and law enforcement.
If a deputy spots a child wearing a helmet, picking up trash, or observing crosswalk rules, he or she could get a “ticket” for a free small Slurpee at 7-Eleven.
Hundreds of agencies around the country have participated in the program since it began in 1995.
Youth Relations Bureau Captain Beth Jones said Operation Chill is a great way to develop relationships with the youth in the community, while teaching the importance of making good decisions, being kind, and doing the right thing.
Preteen with thumbs up against blue sky
The program goes hand-in-hand with another initiative the sheriff’s office promotes year round. Students are recognized during award ceremonies for the good deeds they do either in school or in the community as part of the Do The Right Thing program. While it is usually teachers who nominate students, anyone in the community can do so.
Do you know a child who has “done the right thing” and deserves special recognition? We would love to hear from you. Forms are available to fill out online to submit to the CCSO. Visit www.colliersheriff.org/we-can-help/parent-resources/dothe-right-thing.
The award ceremonies are held six times a year at the Lorenzo Walker Institute of Technology, 3702 Estey Ave., Naples, in the school cafeteria at 3:30 p.m. Dates are updated throughout the summer for 2017-18 school year on www.colliersheriff.org.
In the past, winners have been recognized for standing up to bullies, giving found valuables to adults, donating birthday money to a nonprofit, and alerting adults to bad behavior by fellow students. We’ve even seen students rescuing other students from dangerous situations and calling 911 when their teacher needed medical attention.
During the ceremonies, a CCSO representative explains the award for each student and hands out certificates and medals. Students from elementary school through high school are eligible for nomination.
So tell your kids to be on their best behavior this summer. Our deputies will be patrolling parks, community events, and camps looking to hand out free treats courtesy of 7-Eleven. And you could find yourself being recognized at an upcoming Do The Right Thing Ceremony.
Thanks for helping to keep Collier County a great place and a safe place!