Ohio Department Praised for "Lunch with Law Enforcement" at Local Schools

Students at schools in the Riverside School District are getting used to seeing police officers show up unannounced in the cafeteria, and according to reports, they're enjoying the visits.

Instead of responding to calls for service, officers with area law enforcement agencies have been encouraged to take their lunch breaks at the schools, offering students and police alike to get to know each other.

According to the News Herald , students get to interact with and establish a familiarity with local law enforcement officers on a personal level. Meanwhile, the officers can use the opportunity to foster and maintain bonds within the community.

Agencies that are participating in the program include the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, Ohio State Patrol, and Lake Metropark Rangers.