LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — The Las Vegas Metro Police Department is working to connect with the Hispanic community.
At La Bonita Supermarket in northwest Las Vegas Thursday, the usual grocery shoppers found something extra– pan dulce, coffee and a chance to sit down with Metro Police.
“It’s just kind of a way for us to let them know that he’s like, ‘Hey, we’re all together, we’re working together, and we’re here for you guys,’” said LVMPD officer Adriana Garcia.
Garcia said the event is all about rebuilding bridges and shared that her goal is to create a welcoming space for families who may hesitate to approach police.
“When I came to this country, I decided it was a big opportunity and kind of my way to give back to this country is to help people, especially the Hispanic community,” she said.
For Officer Garcia, the effort is personal. She explained she remembers struggling with language barriers as a child and says outreach like this shows families, they don’t have to be afraid to ask for help.
“I know certain Hispanic people can have a certain opinion or like they might feel a certain way towards police, but I’m passionate about it to actually approach them, talk to them, and let them know that at the end of the day, we’re all one community together,” she said.
Shoppers like Elizabeth Flores said these small gestures build trust.
“Because the community needs to know the police are on our side to protect us, and we need to feel very comfortable,” Flores said.
Metro said this conversation over pan dulce is one step toward keeping neighborhoods safe.
“No matter what it is, their situation, we’re always going to be there to help them,” Garcia said.
Copyright 2025 KVVU. All rights reserved.
