A small rubber turtle in a police uniform is becoming an icebreaker for Sandy Springs officers.
Some officers carry the figures in their patrol cars to give away during positive encounters with residents, according to Simply Buckhead. The department selected the turtles for its August National Night Out celebration and continued distributing them afterward.
Sgt. Giovanni Gomez, the department’s public information officer, told the magazine that the initiative gives officers a chance to connect with people outside emergencies and other stressful situations.
The choice of animal reflects a longstanding community symbol.
The Sandy Springs Society began organizing its Town Turtles public art project in 2004. Seventy-five decorated sculptures appeared around the community in 2005, coinciding with the successful effort to incorporate Sandy Springs.
The project raised more than $750,000 through sponsorships, merchandise and an auction, according to the city’s history page. The proceeds supported park purchases, the entertainment lawn at Heritage Green and a foundation endowment.
Canine support for residents
The department is also preparing a different kind of community resource: Skye, a black Labrador who will assist its victim advocates.
Police introduced Skye in July through a partnership with Warrior Paws Inc. and Rucker Dog Training. Her training is intended to prepare her to comfort crime victims and others facing difficult circumstances, WSB-TV reported.
Victim advocate Caity Donegan, Skye’s handler, told Simply Buckhead that plans include bringing her to community events and, when appropriate, accompanying advocates on difficult calls.
More information about the department is available at sandyspringsgapolice.gov.
