Police 'Ticketing' Operation Offers Free Slurpees to Kids

Photo courtesy of 7-Eleven

By City News Service

Officers in Desert Hot Springs will be out this week issuing tickets to young people, but instead of reflecting bad behavior, these tickets are aimed at youngsters doing good and can be redeemed for free Slurpees at local 7-Eleven stores.

Operation Chill is an annual event aimed at encouraging positive behavior by children during the hot summer months when incidences of graffiti, shoplifting and loitering typically increase.

Officers will be looking for young people doing good things, like helping others, wearing bicycle helmets, picking up trash, observing school crossing rule or just showing a positive attitude.

“The coupons are great for officers who are on patrol in the community,” Desert Hot Springs police Chief Dale Mondary said. “It is an icebreaker, a way to encourage dialogue in a non-threatening, non-law enforcement situation.”

Each coupon can be redeemed for a small Slurpee at participating 7-Eleven stores.

Cathedral City police officers are also participating in Operation Chill.