City officials and community members gathered at King Park on June 25 to celebrate the launch of the Canton Police Department’s new “Police in Parks” program, a community outreach and safety initiative aimed at strengthening relationships between law enforcement and residents in city neighborhoods.
The event was part of the department’s ongoing “We Believe in Canton” festivities and featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost, Police Chief John Gabbard, Mayor William V. Sherer II, Canton Councilwoman Brenda Kimbrough, and Canton Parks and Recreation Director Doug Foltz.
Chief Gabbard said the initiative is designed to foster meaningful conversations between police officers and residents in calm, neutral spaces—outside the context of emergencies or crisis situations.
“When I designed the ‘We Believe in Canton’ events, I intentionally utilized the city park system,” Gabbard said. “Canton parks are integral parts of every neighborhood in the city. The idea was shaped when I visited King Park and saw its beautiful pergola, curbstone walls, and benches. I knew it was a perfect setting for small neighborhood meetings and police engagement.”…