I was driving around Panama City, Panama, photographing the buildings and graffiti. I ended up in a neighborhood, which I later learned was one of the most dangerous in Panama.

Within 30 seconds of stopping my car and getting out, two police officers walked up to me and told me, to get back in my car and leave, because the area was too dangerous.

I persuaded them to let me take a couple photos before leaving. They actually radioed for backup and within 2 minutes,two more officers arrived.

I took a few shots of the graffiti and some local kids playing soccer. A Panamanian woman walked up to me and started chatting with me. I decided to make a few portraits for her before leaving.