Posted by Fun-Size Snicker, a resident of the Downtown neighborhood, on Nov 11, 2011 at 2:16 pm
I can only imagine the fear and angst your child must have now after approaching a black and white police car and accepting candy from a uniformed police officer. How conflicted your daughter must be! Surely there must be something better for police to do instead of sending these horrible mixed messages to our youngsters. You are definitely on the ball. Fortunately, the officers were not driving a windowless van and wearing old army jackets or missing any teeth. I would suggest that in the future you escort your daughter everywhere, keeping her within an arm's reach. The next thing you know she may have to talk to someone like a teacher or even more scary, a fireman in a big red truck!
Posted by Sam, a resident of the Oak Hill neighborhood, on Nov 11, 2011 at 2:42 pm
I think that this was a nice gesture by the local police, which is a valued part of our community. Upon first reading Kevin Heller's letter, I paused and thought that perhaps he had a point about sending the wrong message to children about "taking candy from strangers". But then a reread his letter. His letter states that it was a "clearly marked Police/DARE SUV", and also seems to say that the officers were in official police uniform. So I don't see how there is any possible confusion here with "taking candy from strangers". Lighten up, Kevin. These aren't some "strangers" who are a potential threat to you and your daughter. They're our Pleasanton police, who exist to help protect you, your daughter, and your community.
Posted by Mike, a resident of the Highland Oaks neighborhood, on Nov 11, 2011 at 6:15 pm
If the PPD wishes to distribute Halloween candy to children, then good judgment would dictate that they do so either from the police department headquarters or by uniformed officers at fixed locations such as shopping centers, schools, libraries or other public places.
Posted by Pension Watcher-suck it, a resident of the Another Pleasanton neighborhood neighborhood, on Nov 11, 2011 at 11:30 pm
"Yes, I understand that there is a difference between a civilian in plainclothes and a police officer in uniform, and I think children understand that, too -- but still, this was not a good idea."
Wow, embarrassing that this is even an issue. This shows just how effed up you Pleasanton people are.
Posted by Typical Ptown parent, a resident of the Birdland neighborhood, on Nov 11, 2011 at 11:39 pm
Kevin, I feel your pain, as I have also experienced this outrage. I spend all year telling my children not to approach unknown houses or accept candy from strangers, but EVERY YEAR on October 31st, the citizens of Pleasanton conspire against me. They carve pumpkins, decorate their doorways, and practically DRAG my children to their door to collect free candy. Sure, you can call it "Halloween" if you want, but it is abundantly clear that there are anti-parenting forces at work here.
I am just relieved that there are level-headed parents like us who can talk openly to our therapists about this subject. In fact, I think we should start a support group.
Look out Saint Nick - you're next on the chopping block!!
Posted by Occupy the Occupation, a resident of the Beratlis Place neighborhood, on Nov 11, 2011 at 11:48 pm
Kevin, I fully agree. The police should not be making ANY attempt to distort the perception that you have worked so hard to develop, i.e., that they are overpaid, pension grubbing devil-worshipers. Keep up the good work!
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