MWC Police, Civic Leaders Unite For Community Outreach

Midwest City’s police chief and a few of his officers went door-to-door Saturday with members of the NAACP and civic and religious groups to try to start a dialogue.  

"To make sure that the residents understand that the officers want to be community-based officers and to serve them and to engage, and not ignore the community and knowing them and that way we can all work together," said Midwest City Councilwoman Christine Price-Allen.

Officers also handed out pamphlets, outlining what folks should do if approached by police, like cooperate and always stay in your car if you’re pulled over unless an officer asks you to get out.

"Some people really don't know how to interact with police and they don't understand our job and so we try to explain what we do and in return they'll understand what to do if they come into contact with us," said Midwest City police Chief Brandon Clabes.

Neighbors seemed receptive. Those News 9 spoke with say we’ve seen enough bloodshed in the past few months.

"The police have a purpose and they do their job and if we all come together, and work together, you know, and it's just kind of like, I think it's getting a little better," said resident Dorothy Greer after talking with police.  

Clabes said that's exactly what he's trying to do.

"We want to break down those barriers and let them know that their police department cares," Clabes said.