Back in 2019, Euclid Police Department community policing & crime analysis coordinator Kate McLaughlin wanted to get Euclid residents actively involved in and educated about crime prevention measures they could take in their own neighborhood.

“This mini-conference event was inspired by Euclid community members who want to work with police to prevent crime and make our neighborhoods safer,” says McLaughlin. “I did this event in Euclid for Euclid residents in 2019, and it was well-received. I wanted to do it again, but COVID hit.”

Sgt Matt Gilmer of the Community Response Unit speaking in Columbus at a conferenceFive years later, McLaughlin is launching Euclid’s second Northeast Ohio Police Crime Prevention Mini Conference this Saturday, Sept. 21 at the Lincoln Electric Welding Technology & Training Center in Euclid.

This year’s conference is a group effort—one that includes more than 35 additional law enforcement agencies and community organizations from around Northeast Ohio.

“I believe agencies are reaching out and looking for ways to connect better with people and open up communication,” explains McLaughlin. “Community policing is about the community and law enforcement working together to ensure safer neighborhoods.”

The mini conference is designed to provide the community with valuable insights and practical knowledge on various aspects of crime prevention. The event will feature a series of Listen & Learn Break Out Sessions, including:

• Internet Theft & Fraud: Learn about the latest techniques and strategies to protect yourself from online theft and fraud from Willoughby Hills Police Department.
• ODOT: Stay Aware, Alert & Alive: Essential tips and advice from the Ohio Department of Transportation on staying safe and alert while driving.
• Scamo Fraud Awareness Game: An interactive game designed to educate participants on recognizing and preventing fraud will be conducted by the Cuyahoga County Department of Consumer Affairs Scam Squad.
• Hands-on Martial Arts Demonstration: A practical session demonstrating self- defense techniques will be given by Kang Do Won Martial Arts Institute.
• Community Response Unit Firearm Seizures: Euclid Police Officers will speak on the CRU’s procedures of firearm and narcotics seizures and efforts to maintain community safety.
• Reducing Violent Crime at Liquor Permit Premises: The Ohio Investigative Unit will cover their strategies and best practices for reducing violent crime in locations with liquor permits.
• From Report to Resolution—The Steps to Felony Prosecution: Learn the process of a felony prosecution from the initial police report, appearance in court, bind over, grand jury, pre-trials, and trials. A Cuyahoga County Prosecutor will explain expectations at each stage, what to consider for a plea deal, and victims’ rights.
• Youth Law Enforcement Career Exploration: Willoughby Police Department will provide insights and guidance for young individuals interested in pursuing a career in law enforcement.

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Officer Hounshell, Officer Selig, and Sgt. Gilmer with SWAT armored vehicle and patrol carEDGE/SWAT, a multi-jurisdictional crime-fighting team from Beachwood, Bratenahl, Cleveland Heights, Euclid, Shaker Heights, South Euclid, and University Heights, will have its truck on site, as well as a robot and a drone.

Euclid Animal Shelter will have puppies and kittens awaiting adoption. Gina with Carhop’s Diner Dogs will be serving sandwiches from her food truck.

The Northeast Ohio Police Crime Prevention Mini Conference is free and open to the public, and runs Saturday, Sept. 21 for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Lincoln Electric Welding Technology & Training Center, 22800 St. Clair Avenue, Euclid 44117.