Burlington County Sheriff Anthony Basantis announced the next round of classes for his department’s Youth Police Academy.
The first session of the program, which is planned to provide an opportunity for youth and officers to connect and build stronger, positive relationships, will take place on March 14.
Basantis said classes are scheduled over the course of three consecutive Saturdays, ending on March 28 with a graduation ceremony. The program is free and open to youths between the ages 10–12.
“It’s a great opportunity for our community’s youth to participate in a quality education on safety, and law enforcement subjects,” Basantis said in a statement.
He explained that the police youth academy introduces students to the field of law enforcement.
“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,” he said.
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 Amber Barcliff at 609-265-3788 or email abarcliff@co.burlington.nj.us. Classes will be held from 9 a.m. to noon at the Emergency Services Training Center located at 53 Academy Drive in Westampton. Morning snacks are provided on each of the Saturday mornings
