OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Some Omaha-area police and fire agencies are using sports to connect with local youth.
Omaha police officers recently replaced a tattered basketball net and handed out balls to neighborhood youth as part of Operation NETS, or Neighborhood Engagement Through Sports. It's a collaborative effort for law enforcement agencies to meet local youth and build trust by delivering new sports equipment.
Capt. Wayne Hudson of the Douglas County Sheriff's Office says it's about building relationships so youth feel comfortable approaching law enforcement for any issues in the future.
The sheriff's office participates in joint effort with the Omaha Police Department, Omaha Fire Department, La Vista Police Department and a group called Coalition RX.
Residents can donate sports equipment at the agencies. Officials will pass them out on patrol or during investigations.
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