Lakes Area Law Enforcement Association (LALEA)

The mission of the Lakes Area Law Enforcement Association (LALEA) is to build a positive and mutually beneficial, long-term partnership between the community and law enforcement.

Support


LALEA supports the Brainerd Police Department, Baxter Police Department, Crow Wing County Sheriff's Department, and various public events as volunteers throughout Crow Wing County. Members assist with traffic control, crowd control, and security for some requested events, which include in-line skating events, triathlons, bike touring events, public safety events, public service events and parades.

Citizen Police Academy

The Lakes Area Law Enforcement Association provides support for the Brainerd Police Department Citizen Police Academy and the Crow Wing Sheriff’s Academy. These programs provide 15 or more hours of instruction in the functions of various departments of each organization; completion of either of these academies will qualify a volunteer to join LALEA.

Shop with a Cop


LALEA also assists the Brainerd and Baxter Police Departments with a Christmas project called Shop with a Cop. In early December, 60 needy children have a chance to eat breakfast with police officers and LALEA members, after which the officers and LALEA members help the children shop for Christmas presents at area businesses at no cost to the children or their families.

Crow Wing County Fair


Each year the LALEA has a booth in the Public Safety Building at the Crow Wing County Fair.  They provide education at the fair, focusing on "Drug Prevention," challenging kids from 10-18 to read an informational sheet and then to take a test of knowledge on drug prevention.  By doing so, they can enter their name into a chance drawing for one of three give away laptops.  They also hand out public safety information brochures and kids safety content coloring books.

Tent City


LEA provides all-night security for the "Tent City" for kids at the Arboretum, a New Pathways event to teach kids what homeless living is like, as they build shelters from cardboard and use a campfire for warmth, staying until morning.

Funding


Funds for the above events are raised by donations and grants.  Supporting LALEA is:  Walmart, Fleet Farm, Target, Dorcus, and Brainerd Lions, as well as brat sales and annual dues.

Contact


If you would like additional information about the Lakes Area Law Enforcement Association, please contact Herman Bradley, President, at 218-838-3774.