We had another amazing Starfish Connect event at Sullivant Gardens Community Center today!
The children were treated to a visit from deputies from the Franklin County Sheriff's Office. Deputy Lowell Wood answered many questions about jail, including what a typical day is like and what kind of food is served. When asked if the people in jail are bad, he shared a thoughtful perspective: just because someone is in jail doesn't mean they're bad—they may have just made a bad decision. This resonated with two children who later shared that they have relatives in jail.
We were also thrilled to have K-9 Deputy Jimmy McCoy and Nitro, who actually made headlines today! The children learned about how they took 30 grams of meth off the streets after stopping a motorist driving the wrong way. The kids were treated to an outdoor demonstration where K-9 Nitro searched for an object in a field. When we asked if they thought Nitro could find it, they confidently said yes—and he did!
In addition to the FCSO deputies, we had Columbus Division of Police Lieutenant and Starfish Board Member Chris Lieb and CPD Officer JJ Young. Some of the kids announced to Officer Young, "You've been here three times now!" It's heartwarming to see the connections forming and the memories being made.
A huge thank you to the staff at Sullivant Gardens Community Center, the deputies, officers, and especially the children who participated. Your engagement and enthusiasm make these events truly special.
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