Law enforcement’s finest gather for expo in Vernon Hills

The Vernon Hills Police Department will host its Ninth Annual Law Enforcement Exhibition Saturday, Sept. 14, and Sunday, Sept. 15, at Westfield Hawthorn shopping center, routes 60 and 21 in Vernon Hills.

Area law enforcement and related agencies will gather in one location for people to see specialty vehicles, equipment and demonstrations and to interact with officers.

Twenty-three area law enforcement agencies are scheduled to participate. Some additional things visitors will see at the expo (in addition to squad cars and motorcycles) include a Humvee, a distracted driving simulator, a prisoner van, a Sept. 11 memorial vehicle, a 9-1-1 calling simulator, an interactive alcohol and tobacco display, and DUI goggles.

Other highlights include:

Ÿ Five police K-9 demonstrations. The demonstrations will be held on the lower level between Sears and the center court.

Ÿ Dependent on weather conditions, an AIR-ONE police helicopter will be landing at 11 a.m. Saturday in the parking lot outside of Sears, between Sears and Qdoba on Route 60, and will stay for approximately two hours.

Ÿ The Illinois Freemasons will be on hand to supply detailed identification kits for children, including fingerprints, photos and video interviews.

“The expo is a wonderful opportunity for us to regenerate public interest in the positive aspects of police work,” said event coordinator Kim Christenson. “It’s fun and educational for everyone, regardless of age.”

Mall hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday. Police exhibits will be available for public viewing during the entire weekend. There will also be free handouts and giveaways.

Visit www.vhpd.com or call (847) 247-4889 for more information, including times of the K-9 demonstrations and a list of participating agencies.