San Bernardino

San Bernardino Police Officers Build Community Connections with Pickup Basketball

Sgt. Chris Gray of the San Bernardino Police Department says it's not always about enforcing the law. He's aiming to make meaningful connections with residents, including teenagers, through their shared love of basketball.

Sgt Chris Gray San Bernardino Police Basketball Dec 2
NBC4

Some police officers San Bernardino are shining a bright spot on some children in their community while enforcing the law.

They are making lasting connections with teens in the area through pick-up basketball.

It started a couple of years ago when Sgt. Chris Gray met some kids while on patrol. Even at their first encounter, he connected with them.

Recently, he went back to the neighborhood and challenged them to a basketball pick-up game with two other officers.

“Personally for me, I try to make those positive engagements,” Gray explains.

“Especially at an earlier age, their viewpoints can be swayed one way or another. They may have negative viewpoints or negative interactions, or stuff they’ve heard.” But then if you have first-hand engagements with them, those strong bonds work out well.”

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As for the game, Sgt. Gray says the kids won this time around.

What are your bright spots? We want to hear from you!

Today in LA, NBC4’s award-winning morning news show, would like to share inspiring stories from our communities, like Sgt. Gray’s effort to build relationship with community members.

You can message our anchor Lynette Romero on Facebook and Instagram. You can also email her at lynette.romero@nbcuni.com.

We’ll share your story on Today in LA and our website to further spread your bright spot!

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