Cape Girardeau officers return from FIFA World Cup security assignment

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) — Two Cape Girardeau police officers are back home after helping provide security during FIFA World Cup events in Kansas City, bringing back new ideas they say could benefit the local community.

Officer Bobby Newton and Corporal Richard Couch spent the weekend assisting with security alongside law enforcement agencies from across the country.

Newton said the experience gave officers a firsthand look at how large-scale events are planned and managed while allowing them to exchange ideas with other departments.

“I got a lot of insight,” Newton said. “It’s great to be able to attend events like that and get some knowledge and experience on how larger-scale events do it.”

Newton said one of the biggest takeaways was seeing how agencies worked together to manage large crowds while fans from different backgrounds came together to enjoy the event.

He said the experience and relationships built during the weekend could help officers prepare for large local events, including the District Fair and other community gatherings in Cape Girardeau.