Chicago Police Offer Free Back-To-School Haircuts

CHICAGO (CBS) -- As police work to rebuild relationships with the public amid heightened tensions due to fatal shootings by officers, the Chicago Police Department offered free back-to-school haircuts Sunday.

"I'm getting my haircut," an excited boy tells WBBM's Nancy Harty. He was among those waiting in line at the 6th District police station.

Organizers say 250 children came out for haircuts given by barbers volunteering their services.

At one point, the line extended out the door of the police station at Halsted and 78th.

Sgt. Ernest Spradley says the 5th annual event gives the police department a chance to get to know residents of Auburn Gresham and surrounding neighborhoods. It comes after a violent summer in Chicago and at a time when trust in police is low.

"I believe the people that we reached out to have a little hesitancy if you will because of the things that are happening nationally with the police," Spradley says. "It just gives the community to see how the police department operates, not just in a regular role, but to see that we do offer programs."