Bridging the Gap event brings together Lincoln youth and law enforcement

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – The second annual Bridging the Gap event hosted by the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office and Lincoln Police Department took place on Tuesday.

The event is designed to foster communication and relationships between youth and law enforcement.

“It widens the communication and allows a free exchange of ideas and messages between the youth of the community and the police department and the sheriff’s department,” said Jason Hellmuth, community services and engagement officer at LPD.

Kids learned about law enforcement practices, equipment and special units.

They used virtual reality headsets to experience what officers go through when responding to certain calls.

Kids also got to practice aspects of traffic stops and learn what officers do during them.

They were also able to share their perspectives and ask questions about community relations with law enforcement.

“An experience like this gives the youth a chance to interact and ask the questions that they may not feel comfortable interacting or asking the question there,” Hellmuth said.

There is one more event on Thursday, when officers will be traveling to Lincoln Lighthouse, an after-school program, to meet with kids there.