The program assists teens in finding ways to connect with the department’s police force.
Burlington County Sheriff Jean Stanfield has announced that her department, along with Faith In Action! Inc., will host the second session of Police and Teens Together (P.A.T.T.) after “incredible feedback” and a “great turnout” from the first session.
“One of the goals of the program is 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 Thursday, Oct. 20 at 6:30 p.m. at the Emergency Services Training Center, located at 53 Academy Drive Westampton.
“During the first class, the officers and teens will discuss the teens’ views on law enforcement,” said Sheriff Stanfield. “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 Thursday, October 27th at 6:30 p.m. at the Public Safety Building, located at 1 Academy Drive Westampton, NJ 08060.
“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,” Standfield said. “The program will help reduce tension and increase respect between law enforcement and youth.”
To register or for more information, call the Burlington County Sheriff’s Department at (609) 265–3788 or Faith in Action! at (609) 835–7000.
