Cops and kids hit the water as baltimore county's badges for bass reels in community bonds

More than 50 students joined officers for a day of fishing and boating at Loch Raven Reservoir

BALTIMORE COUNTY, Md. — Police officers traded patrol cars for fishing boats as dozens of Baltimore County students spent the morning casting lines and building relationships with law enforcement during the department’s annual Badges for Bass event.

The Baltimore County Police Department hosted its third annual Badges for Bass program Thursday at Loch Raven Reservoir, bringing together more than 50 middle and high school students from across the county for a day of boating and fishing alongside police officers.

The community outreach initiative was founded by Sergeant George Bandurchin, who recently received the Do Good Heroes Award for his ongoing efforts to strengthen community engagement in Precinct 8 in Parkville.

According to the department, Bandurchin personally prepares for the event each year, handling everything from lining fishing rods and customizing equipment to making sure every participant leaves with fishing gear of their own.

The program pairs students and officers on boats, creating opportunities for conversations and interactions outside traditional law enforcement settings.

“The program’s deeper purpose is to help kids feel valued and supported while building positive relationships with law enforcement,” Bandurchin said.

Police officials said the event is designed to foster trust and strengthen connections between young people and officers.

The department noted that as agencies across the country work to address youth-related challenges, programs such as Badges for Bass provide opportunities for meaningful engagement and relationship-building.

The annual event has continued to grow since its launch and remains one of the department’s signature youth outreach programs.

Key Points

More than 50 Baltimore County students participated in the third annual Badges for Bass event
Students joined police officers for boating and fishing at Loch Raven Reservoir
The program was founded by Sgt. George Bandurchin to strengthen youth and police relationships

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Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

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