Colton, CA—Colton High has a new School Resource Officer this year, and on Wednesday he hosted his first “Cookies with a Cop” event after school in the Wellness Center.

Officer Anthony Elisarraraz introduced himself to a packed room of Colton students and answered questions for the better part of an hour. “Officer Eli,” as he is known to most of Colton’s students, talked about subjects ranging from the worst things that happened to him on the job (someone died), what motivates him as an officer (his family), and how many dogs he has (four).

The most important thing Officer Eli wanted students to leave the event with was the feeling that they could talk more with local law enforcement, that getting to know your local police better makes our community stronger.

“We need to be able to communicate with the police officers trying to help the kids,” Officer Eli said about why we need programs like “Cookies with a Cop.”. “To bridge the communication between kids and police officers.”

For students who are interested in pursuing a career in law enforcement, Officer Eli shared information about the Colton PD Police Explorers program. He indicated that he can help students get into the program, and that for students over the age of 17 there is an opportunity to receive compensation.

Officer Eli also raffled off several gift items, including Starbucks gift cards, Colton merch, a gift bag, cop car stress balls, and other fun novelties.

Students in attendance seemed mostly engaged, asking questions and gobbling up a variety of cookies. One Colton student who didn’t want to be identified, said “I went for the cookies, but I ended up learning more about what it takes to be an officer. Also that not all cops are bad.”