By Tayleigh Davis - bio | email | twitter
ALBANY, GA (WALB) - Halloween festivities were underway Saturday and along with the candy and costumes, lots of police officers were on the streets ensuring the safety of neighbors. It's all part of the Albany Police Department's Pumpkin Patrol.
The large police presence is also helping them cut down on drunk driving. More boots on the ground gives parents piece of mind when their kids go door to door for candy. APD officer Chris Richardson gears up for patrol in the west district.
"Our main priority is making sure trick-or-treaters are safe and walking in groups," said Richardson. "It's important they have adults with them and they're not walking in the streets. I make sure the cars are going slow through these neighborhoods."
He says getting to know neighbors is key, whether it's walking the streets or handing out candy. It's an assuring sign for Mandy Phillips who lives in the Doublegate area.
"It's good because Halloween is all about the children, that they're safe and having a good time," said Phillips.
Officers will continue to look out for drunk drivers.
"When I come across someone with D.U.I then it will have to be handled," said Richardson.
His main goal is to keep these trick-or-treaters safe. Not only does Richardson plan on patrolling the streets in his car, he also plans on walking the streets to get more acquainted with the neighbors he protects.
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