Police Chief Seeks Help For Halloween Outreach Program

WATER VALLEY – The Water Valley Police Department is reaching out to the public for support for an outreach program for Halloween. Water Valley Police Chief Jason Mangrum said the department is seeking candy donations for scheduled events.

“We have been invited to multiple trunk or treat events. We will also visit every classroom at Davidson Elementary School with a Halloween Safety Tips program and hand out candy to students,” Mangrum explained.

Last year the department spent over $1,000 dollars, money that included donations from officers and the public and a contribution from the city. The chief estimates that the amount of candy needed this year will more than double.

The chief also noted that the Halloween outreach programs is an important component of community policing, helping officers build strong relationships with the youth in the community.

“This year our school resource officer, Jaryn Gooch, wanted to expand the outreach to include all students at the elementary school,” Mangrum said.

Donated candy can be dropped off at the police department, located on Wise Street across from the high school football field. You can also message the department on the Facebook page, Water Valley Police Department, or call the dispatcher at (662) 473-2933, ext. 2, and officers will make arrangements to pick up the candy.

Mangrum said monetary donations will also be accepted. Checks can be made out to the City of Water Valley and the money will be used to purchase candy.

“We would love to recognize any donors or contributions can be made anonymously,” Mangrum added.

Mangrum also supported officers are supporting Breast Cancer Awareness Month with new pink badges that have been issued to all officers to wear in October. Officers’ vests have also been embroidered with pink writing.

“All of the officers wanted to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month, this is very important to the department,” the chief noted.