The State Fair of Texas offers Dallas police officers a unique opportunity to connect with the community.
NBC 5 tagged along with a longtime Dallas officer who may have had more fun than anyone.
Sr. Corp. Terrence J. Hopkins has spent 25 years fighting crime on the streets of Dallas.
However, every year around this time he his spends his days greeting people on the streets of the State Fair of Texas. It serves as a break for those who serve and protect.
"We get to showcase a different side as opposed to getting the call when it's something bad," Hopkins said.
Hopkins helps the Dallas Police Department plan for major events like the fair.
Hopkins uses the assignment to help officers connect with the community.
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On Wednesday he visited with a three year old boy at the fair.
"I am going deputize him," Hopkins said. "We're going to give him the badge."
The fair isn't just about connecting with people for Hopkins. It's also about connecting with the food.
"They have some great carrot cake here," he said. "It's just a great place to work."
