You don’t need a badge to walk the beat.

At least not when you’re on a Walk With Cops. The annual program, hosted by the Johnston Police Department since 1995, has been inviting community members to take a stroll with local officers and get to know them better. While the event primarily serves as outreach for Johnston’s older adult community, anyone is welcome to take a walk around the park with members of the JPD.

This year’s Walk With Cops season began last Wednesday at Johnston Memorial Park, on an early summer day so bright and warm it felt like a crime to stay inside. Gathered at tables decorated with flags as an early nod to last Saturday’s Flag Day, attendees were thrilled to be there – enough to break into a chorus of “God Bless America” before heading off to walk.

After taking their fill of complimentary coffee and snacks served by volunteers, participants joined officers for a stroll around the scenic park.

Chief Mark A. Viera said that the officers “look forward” to celebrating Walk With Cops with community members each summer.

“It’s gratifying to see the joy that they have when they come here to participate in the program,” Viera told the SunRise. “It’s just a great way to interact and connect with them and also enjoy the scenery of the park.”

Linda Folcarelli, a city councilwoman who represents District 1, also attended. She said the event is an annual highlight for her and that she brings family and friends to volunteer alongside her.

“I love it so much,” Folcarelli said. “It’s so rewarding.” 

She estimates that this is her ninth year volunteering at Walk With Cops, a position she took on while still working in the Police Department. Even after leaving her former job to serve as a councilwoman, Folcarelli has continued to volunteer with the program. She also said she worked with family members to donate gifts to be raffled off to participants by the end of the event.

State Representative Richard Fascia of District 42, which includes Johnston and Cranston, was also in attendance.

“It’s a great opportunity for the Police Department and the community to make strong bonds and long-term friendships,” he said. “These are the heroes of Johnston.”

Community members found that the event was a great way to pass a sunny morning.

“The food was wonderful. The police are wonderful. Everything’s wonderful,” said Denise Langlois, a resident at Cherry Hill Manor Nursing and Rehab Facility attending her first Walk With Cops event. “It’s been nothing but great.”

Walk With Cops will take place twice a month until the end of September. The next walk will be Wednesday, June 25 at 9:30 a.m. in Johnston Memorial Park.