New Milford Police to Reward Good Behavior

NEW MILFORD, CT — The police department is beginning a new program encouraging officers to reward young people they catch in the act of "doing something right."

For "Operation Good Citizen" the police have partnered with Hobby Hangout, who will be donating “Good Citizen” passes to be handed out by officers. The passes allow children to use a specially designed New Milford Police radio-controlled truck on their racetrack at 48 Anderson Avenue.

Officers will be handing out passes for such good behavior as wearing a helmet while biking or skateboarding, using the crosswalks, speaking respectfully, helping others in need, doing well in school and community service.

“The passes are a gateway to building trust, respect and relationships," Chief Spencer Cerruto said in a release. "What's most important is that this is a positive interaction, and when the youth sees the officer the next time, it will start off on a positive note. If you reward good behavior, your return on investment will be more good behavior.”

Cerruto hopes to continue to expand the program to include other organizations and businesses in the community, providing more positive options, such as coupons for food, gift cards or entrance passes.