A police officer’s mission is to serve and protect. During a halloween season that is scary from a health standpoint, Kelsey Brackett, Bakersfield Police Department’s Community Relations Specialist said that the BPD still hopes to serve the kids of our community while making sure they are protected from the looming coronavirus.

“Just doing fun things for little kids to come and see police officers in a different light than you would normally see: the tragedy, day in day out,” Brackett said. “With social distancing in mind, we want to keep our safety a top priority, so we’ll be doing it a little differently as a drive-thru event.”

That’s right, rather than cancelling Hal-law-ween, their yearly trick or treat, BPD will be hosting the event on wheels at Beach Park this friday.

they’ll trade their department uniforms for costumes--with masks and gloves to match.

“Different units here are going to decked out differently than how you may see them at a crime scene, let’s say!” Brackett said. “For example, our communications unit normally has vans we drive around in. This year, it’ll be transported into a Mario Party scene. I’ll actually be dressed up as Princess Peach tomorrow!”

Plus protocols will be in place to adhere to CDC guidelines. Brackett explains that attendees must stay in their vehicles at all times while units will be socially-distanced with masks on.

And what is “spooky season” without some sweets? Off-duty officers and volunteers will be sure to give kids packaged candy at the end of their cruise. Costumes are encouraged.

Here’s a full list of Halloween events across Kern County that you can attend.