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ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) -A local pastor, in partnership with several local law enforcement agencies will host Unity on the Court: The Badge vs The People - a basketball tournament with a mission.

The goal: the bridge the gap between young people and law enforcement, and to build stronger, more trusting relationships within the community.

“The crime rate is high everywhere and we want our young people to know that there are some things that can be done to help them feel that they are loved and wanted.” said Archbishop Q.S. Caldwell, Pastor of Greater Joy Cathedral Celebration of Praise Ministries, Inc.

There will be a discussion on the court with the Albany Police Department, Albany State University Police Department, Dougherty County Police Department, and Dougherty County Sheriff’s Office.

Organizers hope the event will build trust, bring the community together, and foster a more positive image of law enforcement.

“We want to make sure that they’re not afraid of us. That is the main thing, they are afraid of police officers, because of the negative image. But we are not here for them to be afraid of us. We want to be here to help them.” said Chief Anita Allen with Albany State University Police.

The basketball tournament will be held at HPER Gym on Albany State University’s East Campus on July 19th from 11 am - 4 pm.

For more information conact Montre Merritt at (912) 548-2886 or Felicia Sims at (229) 520-9564.

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