Newark Police Department has new community policing mascot for youth engagement

NEWARK – The Newark Police Department, in collaboration with the Newark Police Athletic League (PAL), is set to unveil its brand-new community policing mascot in an effort to strengthen connections between local youth and law enforcement.

The unveiling event is scheduled for Friday, April 4, at Downes Elementary School in the Christina School District.

The mascot, which draws inspiration from the eagle featured on the Newark Police Department’s uniform patch, is a unique addition to the department’s community outreach programs.

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Goal for new mascot

This mascot is crafted by the professional mascot company, Character Translations, who are known for creating iconic figures like “Gritty” of the Philadelphia Flyers.

The department hopes the new character will play a key role in fostering positive relationships between Newark’s young people and its law enforcement officers.

The project was made possible through a grant from the Delaware Criminal Justice Council, awarded to the Newark PAL.

This funding underscores Delaware’s ongoing commitment to innovative strategies for youth engagement and community policing.

Approximately 2,000 local elementary school students were involved in the naming process, submitting their ideas for what the mascot should be called.

A committee of Newark Police officers and members of the Newark PAL Board of Directors selected the winning name, which will be revealed at the pep rally.

The mascot’s name and the student who helped select it will be announced at the rally.

Lieutenant Gregory D’Elia, the department’s Public Information Officer, emphasized the importance of the initiative, stating that the mascot represents more than just the police department – it embodies a commitment to building positive, lasting connections between officers and the community.

The Newark Police Department states it’s hoping to take a step forward in its mission to enhance community bonds through innovative policing strategies.