A video of a Sanford police officer dancing with some kids has gone viral. Now, the officer in the video is talking about how the dancing is part of a much bigger purpose.
- Officer Amelia Inoa has a bit of fun as she cuts some rug with local kids
- She says it's a good way to help show the community that police officers like to have fun too
- Video of her dancing has reached nearly 150,000 people on social media
Officer Amelia Inoa says she never imagined a routine police call would turn into a dance off.
“As we drove by we saw a group of kids, and one girl caught my eye because she did a little shake, and I started laughing,” said Inoa.
But after finishing the call at Seminole Garden Apartments in Sanford Tuesday night, it happened.
The other responding officer recorded the video that’s been watched by nearly 150,000 people on social media.
Inoa says while the dancing was a first for her, she says this type of interaction with the community is nothing new.
“I try to make it a priority when I’m on patrol to get out with as many people as I can to just dispel that fear, to let them know we’re there to help, and they can see we’re normal people too and we like to be silly and have fun,” said Inoa.
“I didn’t expect it to become what it is, I just enjoyed myself and it went from there.”
For several months now, Sanford Police Department have also released videos of their officers doing lip-sync challenges with each other. The purpose is to show officers are people too. It’s a part of their efforts to strengthen their relationship with the community.
“They see a lot of negativity, but if we can bring some positivity and have some fun, even if it’s with a silly dance or just a wave, it’s all about community policing,” said Inoa. “And showing we’re out there, and there to help when they need us.”