Good citizenship makes a community great

How do we bring the community together to prevent crime? There are some simple things we can do individually to protect ourselves — like keeping our doors locked, even when we are at home. There are also things that we can do as individuals that benefit our community. We can get to know our neighbors or befriend an elderly person.

“Citizens can do simple yet powerful things to make our city a great place to be,” according to www.goodcitizen.org.

I spoke to a third grade class recently about being a good citizen and what that would mean to the police department. The boys and girls in Mrs. Johnson’s third grade class at Great Lakes Elementary were very insightful.

The kids talked about treating each other well and respecting each other. We talked about not bullying and helping each other with small things like spelling. We talked about little things that can make a difference like picking up a piece of garbage or helping parents and neighbors shovel sidewalks. We talked about how being a good citizen means not committing crimes and following the rules.

Meeting with the class along with comments made to me at the “Coffee with a Cop” gathering made me think of the little things we should do as adults to be good and effective citizens.

Good citizens should stop for people in cross walks. We should report criminal and suspicious behavior to the police by calling 911. We also need to stay informed about the laws and rules that help to make our society orderly. Learn more about citizen actions at www.goodcitizen.org.

Being an effective citizen could include hosting a “National Night Out” event in your neighborhood. “National Night Out” is a program to raise awareness of crime prevention. This event fosters a sense of community by getting to know your neighbors. The Superior Police Department is promoting the program and working with groups to host the events. If you would like more information about “National Night Out” go to www.nationalnightout.org. Contact me at the Superior Police Department if you are willing to host one of these events.

I wanted to include another “Superiors Most Wanted” photo. The attached photo is of Jake C. Freeman, date of birth July 13, 1987. He is wanted for a felony offense domestic abuse-strangulation and two counts of domestic abuse-damage to property. Freeman was involved in an incident last year where he assaulted an ex-girlfriend.

Freeman also has a warrant for non-payment of child support. If anyone has information on the location of Freeman, please call the Superior Police Department at (715) 395-7234 or 911 if you know Freeman’s immediate location.

Community Policing Officer Bonnie Beste shares information with the community. You can leave a voicemail for her at (715) 395-7401. Her column will appear on the first Friday of each month in the Superior Telegram.

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