STEVENS POINT, WI (WSAU) — Several Portage County law enforcement agencies will host their 12th annual “Cops-n-Bobbers” event on Saturday.
Portage County Deputy Eric Koepsell is the organizer of this year’s event. He says while it may only happen for a couple of hours one day per year, it does make a lasting impact on the participants.
“Over the 12 years we’ve been doing this I’ve had [kids that I’ve interacted with] come up to me and say ‘ hey Deputy Eric, how are you doing?’ It’s an opportunity to have that positive interaction especially when you see so many negative things,” said Koepsell. “We’re trying to say ‘hey we’re out here to help you. Please don’t be afraid to come up to us.”
He says that’s especially true because so often residents don’t interact with cops unless something has gone wrong. “Lots of times it is kind of their ‘worst day ever,’ or not a good event. We want to give them a positive interaction with law enforcement.”
Koepsell started the event in 2008 alongside Plover Police Officer Seth Pionke who hoped to pass on their love of fishing to area youth while introducing them to a positive recreational activity.
Participating agencies will include the Portage County Sheriff’s Office along with the Stevens Point and Plover Police Departments. The UWSP Police Department will also participate. Representatives from the Wisconsin DNR will also be on hand to help the kids bait their hooks and reel in what they catch while also providing logistical support.
The event is free from 9 to 11 AM on Saturday with a lunch and door prizes to follow. Since the event coincides with the DNR’s free fishing weekend, no license is required for participants. Some equipment will be provided, but participants are free to bring their own as well.
A $2,000 grant from the Stevens Point Elks Lodge is helping to fund this year’s event.
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