Famous Skateboarder Makes Big Donation To Bellevue

BELLEVUE, WA - Years ago, the saying used to be, "skateboarding is not a crime." That was when skateboarders were chased by police for doing tricks on public and private property.

Now, the cops and the skateboarders are working together.

Mike Vallely, an original member of the Powell 1980s Bones Brigade skate team, recently donated 10 skateboard decks to Bellevue officer Craig Hanaumi, who you might know as the "skateboarding cop."

According to Hanumi, he spoke with Vallely a few months ago, and the two talked about a possible donation to Bellevue kids interested in skateboarding. Vallely owns Street Plant, which makes skateboard decks (in both new and old school styles), wheels, and other accessories.

Bellevue has one of the most comprehensive skateboarding programs around with three outdoor parks and one indoor park. The city also offers skateboarding lesson for kids as young as 4. But skateboards aren't cheap. Assembling all the parts to build a decent setup can cost over $100, and the deck is usually the most expensive part.

"We're going to have a blast giving away these boards!" Hanaumi said in a video posted on the Bellevue police Facebook page.

Image via YouTube