Burlington County Sheriff Jean Stanfield announced the next round of classes for her department’s Youth Police Academy. The first session of the program, which provides an opportunity for youth and officers to connect and build stronger, positive relationships, will take place on Saturday, March 23rd. Classes are scheduled over the course of three consecutive Saturdays, ending on April 6, 2019 with a graduation ceremony. The program is free and open to children ages 10 – 12 years-old.
“With the popularity of this program, the Sheriff’s Department is proud to extend it to even more youth in the community,” said Sheriff Jean Stanfield. “This is a fantastic opportunity to participate in a quality education on safety, fire, and law enforcement subjects.”
“Our Youth Police Academy introduces students to the field of law enforcement,” explained Stanfield. “Participants will familiarize themselves with the teamwork involved in effective law enforcement, how to apply the skills they learn from the course and help make their communities safer.”
The program, which focuses on safety issues important to youth, is free and covers topics such as:
- Internet Safety
- Central Communications Presentation
- Peer Pressure/Bullying
- Gun Safety
- Police Canine (K9)
- Emergency Vehicles
- SWAT Demonstration
Participants will also be able to get behind the wheel of pedal carts while wearing Fatal Vision goggles. The goggles mimic the effects that drugs and alcohol have on hand-eye coordination and let the wearer experience first-hand the dangers of impaired driving.
Those interested in attending should call Autumn Maybury at 609-265-3788 or email amaybury@co.burlington.nj.us. The classes will be held from 9 a.m. to noon at the Human Services Building located at 795 Woodlane Road in Westampton. Morning snacks are provided on each of the Saturday mornings.