LCPD hosts MOC on the block event

The Las Cruces Police Department held its latest MOC at the Block event Jan. 29 at the East Mesa Recreation Center. The outreach effort, which is short for “Mayor on the Corner,” brought police officers and members of the community together for open conversations, safety tips, and updates on neighborhoods throughout the city in a relaxed, outdoor setting.

“It is to engage the public, build those relations with the community, and bring resources out to those areas,” said Sergeant Aaron Lazarin, supervisor for the Community Outreach unit for the LCPD. “It's to bring a fun event but also give the chance for the community and surrounding areas to voice their concerns to law enforcement.”

Families and residents of Las Cruces gathered under tents to speak with officers, ask various questions, and learn about the latest local programs. There were games, children received giveaways from officers, and the local members of the community got a chance to speak with law enforcement outside of an emergency.     

“It was nice to see the officers out here engaging with the community,” said Alcinia Rene, a Las Cruces resident who attended the event with her family. “Sometimes, I think it gets forgotten that they are a part of the community too.”

The event featured many booths from the city departments. Officers shared information regarding crime prevention, answered questions about the youth programs, and handed out community resources.

“The stronger relationship we have with our community and with the police department, allows us to do our jobs and serve at a much better rate,” Lazarin said. “It’s like great, we can start to work on those things and build relationships and serve those people in the communities.”