The reality TV show “Cops” will film in Wichita next week.
Wichita Police Lt. James Espinoza said the department is anxious to get things started.
“I just think it’s a good opportunity for a Midwest city, police department,” he said. “We had a good experience I believe when they were here last time.”
This would mark the third time Cops has filmed in Wichita. Crews were here in 2003 and in 2006.
Yet, there was some concern as to if the crews would make it down here. Nearly two weeks ago, Cops audio producer Bryce Dion was shot and killed during a restaurant robbery filmed in Omaha. The bullet was fired by an officer. It’s believed that Dion and his photographer were assigned to Wichita next.
Espinoza said Wichita Police will not do anything differently in terms of safety for the crew members, but they already take measures to assure the best for everyone involved.
He said six crew members will ride with officers during the next 10 weeks. They will film during the night shift. Espinoza is not sure as to when the footage will air.
“Hopefully people across the country will notice Wichita and the fine work the men and women do for this department and for this community,” Espinoza said. “It’s a fantastic community, as everyone in the room knows. It gives us an opportunity to show ourselves and how we do business.”