ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. – The Orange County Sheriff’s Office, in partnership with more than a dozen organizations, hosted National Night Out in Pine Hills on Tuesday.
The event was an opportunity for law enforcement officers and neighbors to engage in conversations about crime prevention and to strengthen community ties.
“We hear so much about things happening that aren’t positive, but this is a very positive environment,” said Latanya Nichols, president of the Pine Hills Community Council.
The initiative comes amid efforts to build trust between residents and law enforcement, addressing common misconceptions about officers and their role in the community.
Undersheriff Mark Canty highlighted one of the key misconceptions: “That we’re robots, that we’re not human beings, that we’re not people and we’re only there to arrest everybody.”
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Canty emphasized the importance of fostering relationships with young people in particular.
“I want kids to know that when they see a deputy in uniform, that’s a friend,” he said.
Canty recounted a heartwarming moment that underscored his commitment to the community.
“When a kid comes up to you and smiles and thanks you and gives you a hug, I’ll gladly put myself in danger to protect them,” Canty said.
For some, the event was an eye-opener. Trezure Robinson, an 11-year-old resident, said the presence of officers at the event changed her perspective.
“I always thought they were serious, like they don’t talk to anyone,” she said.
Robinson and her cousin, Hevn Jones, also spoke about the changes they want to see in Pine Hills, including reducing litter and addressing crime.
They hope for more activities for kids, including waterparks and a library.
“So that people can always read and explore their minds with books,” Jones added.
Revitalization and development are key goals for Nichols, who hopes to bring positive changes to the area with the help of county leaders. She also aims to shift public perceptions of Pine Hills.
“One of the most common misconceptions is that no one cares or that crime is happening frequently. Crime is happening everywhere; however, it’s how it’s reported, it’s how people think with their perception,” Nichols said.
Regardless of public perception, Nichols is confident about the community’s future.
“Pine Hills is a great place to live,” she said. “Give Pine Hills another look, it’s changing, and it’s changing for the better.”
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