SPD holds annual Picnic at the Precinct

The Seattle Police Department’s North Precinct held its 4th annual picnic in Northgate today, drawing curious neighbors in beautiful weather.

“The turnout’s been great. We usually count by the hot dogs,” says Captain Mike Washburn. “We just like to say thanks to the community.” The north precinct is the city’s largest, covering everything north of the Ship Canal to the city limits.

The bomb squad maneuvered robots for the kids, always a popular attraction.

And so are the horses from the mounted patrol and the K9 units.

People could ask officers questions as well as talk to a few of the community groups at the picnic. “I’ve learned throughout my career that we don’t accomplish anything long-term unless we have community involvement,” Washburn said, urging residents to not hesitate to call police if they notice their neighborhood is changing for the worse. “That’s when they should start talking to us,” he said. “They shouldn’t wait until it’s a problem.”