Two ATVs and one scooter that were illegally/recklessly operated on Cranston’s streets will find a new home with law enforcement in the Dominican Republic. The Cranston Police Department (CPD) announced Friday that the vehicles have been donated to their new community partner Lights & Sirens International; the nonprofit also received $500 from the Cranstonpolicecares 501c3 charitable account.

Headed by Ibn-Hashim Bakari, Lights and Sirens International’s mission is to educate, support and develop youth by integrating sports and cultural exposure through civic education and guidance with a focus on developing community cohesion in Rhode Island and the Dominican Republic. The organization started in 2009 after Bakari hosted an international basketball tournament for law enforcement and public safety personnel with the mission of helping those less fortunate in the Dominican Republic with essential needs. Several years later, there was a greater need to help bridge the gap between law enforcement and the minority community in the United States, including Rhode Island.

“This goal led Mr. Bakari to create an annual community outreach program where Officers and community members interact casually over a game of Bocce Ball and Cornhole. Lights & Sirens are also actively engaged in fundraising events that support children in Rhode Island and the Dominican Republic,” reads the department’s press release.

Chief of Police Colonel Michael Winquist said Bakari and his team have done a great job focusing on creating positive interactions with police officers.

“Right now, we need to strengthen our relationship with our community,” said Winquist.

He called upon recent police brutality events including the killing of Tyre Nichols.

“What we saw in that video in Memphis is unacceptable and not reflective of the 99.9 percent of police officers that serve…” Winquist said.

Now, more than ever, community relationships and partnerships are extremely important. In conversations between officers and the community, individuals have the goals of living in a peaceful community where all are respected and valued. 

“It’s critical that we listen to the perspective of our community when it comes to policing. And, conversely, educate the public on the experiences and challenges faced by members of law enforcement,” Winquist said. “By working together and creating conversations between law enforcement and the minority community, we can address many concerns and eliminate misconceptions that have the potential to become barriers. I am glad to support their mission and look forward to working closely with members of their organization on future initiatives.”

Mayor Ken Hopkins added that the ATVs and scooter will be shipped to the Dominican Republic over the next several days.

“We [city and CPD] are honored to play a role and support the public safety personnel in the Dominican Republic while progressing the mission of this trip – to help bridge the gap and change the narrative and perspective of law enforcement community relations both abroad, and at home here in Rhode Island,” said Hopkins.

Bakari thanked the city and police department for their donation and is proud of Cranston for stepping up for this initiative.

“Lights & Sirens International would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the Cranston Police Department and the City of Cranston for awarding LSI financial and gift-inkind support. With your contribution, we are one step closer to addressing the mental health of public safety personnel and helping those less fortunate in the Dominican Republic. Also, remedy the long-standing damaged relationship between law enforcement and the minority community. On behalf of LSI, thank you for helping us make a positive difference. Your support encourages our continued commitment to helping change the narrative and perspective of law enforcement and community relations,” said Bakari.

According to Winquist, the department has two other ATVs pending forfeiture and will be sent to the Dominican Republic once complete.