Officers, Teens Honored At Awards Night For NYPD Blue Chips Basketball Program

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Tuesday was awards night for the NYPD's new Blue Chips program, which connects officers to youth through basketball.

Both police and teenagers were honored at One Police Plaza.

Through the program, officers coach and mentor kids across the city.

Commissioner Dermot Shea says it's a way to help build relationships with the community and keep the kids on the right path.

"The cops love the opportunity to work with the kids in the city, to mentor them, to teach them, so it's a win-win," he said.

"We want to make the community safer, and this is a tool to show kids a different side of the badge," NYPD Officer Darnell Gatling said.

The program kicked off in July. It's open to kids ages 12-17.

In:
• New York City Police Department
• New York City
• New York