WJLA-TV reports that Police officers in Takoma Park, Maryland, are issuing tickets to children this month as part of a program called “Operation Chill,” If a cop sees a child making good decisions or being kind, they issue a ticket.
That ticket isn't a fine, it's for a free Slurpee from 7-Eleven!
The program, which is made possible through a partnership with local 7-Eleven stores, targets good deeds like helping others, practicing safety, and positive interactions with cops. Although "Operation Chill" has been around since the 90s, it’s recently been reintroduced in Takoma Park due to a rise in juvenile crime.
Police Chief Antonio DeVaul doesn't see this as a quick fix. But rather a long term investment to have children and cops interact outside of conflict situations.
Takoma Park is in Montgomery County which is reporting an explosion of juvenile crime since the pandemic shutdown of schools and businesses.
From FY22 to FY23:
- Juveniles arrested for violent crimes, an increase of 329%
- Juvenile violent crime suspects, an increase of 178%
- Juvenile victims, an increase of 216%
And 24 is on track to be up even more!
Other Police Departments in TX, FL, TN are also running Operation Chill programs this Summer.