Virginia Research Day 2025

Medical Student Research Education and Simulation

03 Pages on Patrol: Building a Connection Between the Community and Law Enforcement

Louisa Gamor; Harsha Bhagtani, MD Corresponding author: lgamor@vcom.edu

Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine - Virginia Campus

The goal of this project is to improve public relations and reduce fear of authority figures among children. In light of the recent encounters on the news between the community and law enforcement in the past few years, there is a risk of further schism in this country, especially for the upcoming generations. Fearful children foster fearful futures. In this project, we aim to distract and soothe anxious or distressed children in situations requiring police interventions. This goal

will be accomplished by providing developmentally appropriate books during police responses. In partnership with the Montgomery County Police Department, our selection of developmentally appropriate books for ages one to eighteen will be placed in each participating patrol vehicle. Participating police officers will complete a pre and post-survey to gauge the success of the project.

Participation in this project will increase positive interaction between children of Montgomery County and police officers. IRB waiver granted by Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine Institutional Review Board, protocol number: 2024-143

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2025 Research Recognition Day