The program helps establish an interactive and positive relationship between teens and law enforcement officers.
Burlington County Sheriff Jean Stanfield announced that her department, along with Faith In Action! Inc., will host the third session of the “Police and Teens Together” (P.A.T.T.) program after incredible feedback and a great turnout from the first and second sessions.
Ten spots still open for teens to register for this program.
“One of the goals of the program is to continue to open up lines of communication between law enforcement and teenagers,” Stanfield said. “This helps our officers understand the concerns and perceptions of teenagers concerning stereotypes and experiences with law enforcement.”
The first class will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 29 at 6:30 p.m. at the Human Services Building, located at 795 Woodlane Road in Westampton.
“During the first class, the officers and teens will openly discuss the teens’ views on law enforcement,” Stanfield said. “The teens will get to act out scenarios complete with uniforms and radios where they are law enforcement officers.”
The second class will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 6 at 6:30 p.m. at the Public Safety Building, located at 1 Academy Drive in Westampton.
“During the second class, teens will play the role of law enforcement using lifelike video technology Firearms Automated Training System (F.A.T.S) so they can experience the split-second decision-making required by police officers,” Stanfield said. “This activity will educate youth on why law enforcement officers use certain tactics.”
“This program is just one of the many innovative ways in which our department is assisting our teens in finding ways to connect with our police force,” Stanfield said. “When we first start the program kids are very reserved. By the end, they are hugging officers goodbye and it is amazing to see that transformation.”
To register or for more information, call the Burlington County Sheriff’s Department at (609) 265–5127 or Faith in Action! at (609) 835–7000.
