BEDFORD COUNTY, Pa. (WJAC) — Sunday morning, 9-year-old Raymond Koontz of Bedford decorated cookies to look like police officers, cars, and badges.
"I thought it would be fun to come to make cookies, so I made some cookies today," Raymond said.
He decorated with the Bedford County Sheriff, Wayne Emerick, right by his side.
"We try to build a real rapport with them, because as they grow and mature, they can grow up and trust police. We're there for the public," Sheriff Emerick said.
This was during the "Cookies With A Cop" event, hosted by the Bedford County "Shop With A Cop" organization.
Michael Whelan, member of the organization, said events like these are for the children of Bedford County to improve their relationship with local law enforcement.
"Having that positive impact early on builds that relationship for the rest of their life. We're not this scary boogeyman. We're here to help," Michael told 6 News.
Officers from the Bedford County Sheriff's Office, Bedford Borough Police, and PA State Police were there.
Kids were also able to go inside some of their police cars.
"They love the cars. They love the chance to get behind the wheel and experience what it's like for a cop for a couple minutes," Michael said.
Altoona First Savings Bank and the Bedford Elks Country Club made donations for the event.
"We're just like you. We're your neighbors, your family, your friends, your churchgoers. We're just a member of our community that wants to improve every aspect of this county, and we're here to help," Michael said.
Click here for more information on the Bedford County "Shop With A Cop" organization.
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