GVSU Police Academy participates in 'bright idea' program

Dozens of homes in the Southwest Area Neighborhood (SWAN) of Grand Rapids will shine brighter in an effort to reduce crime. 

Nearly 40 students in the GVSU Police Academy joined members of the John Ball Area Neighborhood Association and the Grand Rapids Police Department June 23 to hand out nearly 875 LED light bulbs and crime prevention brochures to residents of the West Side. 

"Lighting is an excellent crime prevention tool," said Billy Wallace, director of the GVSU Police Academy. "By helping residents light the entrances to their homes and sharing crime prevention tips, we hope to make this community safer." 

Wallace said interaction between GVSU Police Academy students and residents of the West Side shows the strong commitment Grand Valley has to the community and improving the quality of life. 

For more information about the GVSU Police Academy visit gvsu.edu/cj/policeacademy.