New Milford Police Department Announces Operation Good Citizen

Operation Good Citizen

The New Milford Police Department is partnering the Hobby Hangout to catch kids doing something right and rewarding them for their positive actions.

All too often the police are involved in negative situations and have to deal with these according to a more formal process. This new community policing program, Operation Good Citizen, encourages officers to make positive contacts and to acknowledge the many good things that our young citizens do on a daily basis. 

The owner of the Hobby Hangout, John Gallagher is on the same page with rewarding positive citizenship and through discussions with Chief Spencer Cerruto, has pledged to support the program by donating “Good Citizen” passes, to be handed out by officers. These passes allow kids to use a specially designed New Milford Police radio controlled truck on their racetrack, at 48 Anderson Ave. “I want to thank Mr. Gallagher for his support of this program and for building the New Milford Police remote control truck!" he said. 

Chief Cerruto wants to continue to expand the program to include the many organizations and businesses in the community to provide more positive options, such as, coupons for food, gift cards or entrance to something fun. The passes are a great alternative and officers will give out the passes for all sorts of good behavior, for example, wearing a helmet while biking or skateboarding, using the crosswalks, speaking respectfully, helping others in need, doing well in school and community service.

“The passes are a gateway to building trust, respect and relationships. What's most important is that this is a positive interaction, and when the youth sees the officer the next time, it will start off on a positive note. If you reward good behavior, your return on investment will be more good behavior” “Mr. Gallagher and the Hobby Hangout are the first company to come forward to begin this program and I look forward to seeing the program grow throughout the community," said Chief Cerruto.