The Orange County Sheriff’s Office calls future heroes and law enforcement enthusiasts to join the first Junior Law Enforcement Academy. The free program features activities, classroom presentations, and hands-on experiences taught by Orange County Sheriff’s Deputies.
During the five-day program, student cadets will interact with deputy sheriffs, meet K9 teams, participate in character-building activities, push themselves with physical fitness, and explore different facets of law enforcement through classroom learning and hands-on demonstrations.
“It is important for our youth to interact with our deputies positively,” Sheriff Arteta said. “We never want anyone’s first interaction with the police to be something traumatizing or scary. I wanted to implement this program for our young residents to give them the opportunity to learn what we do as law enforcement officers and to continue fostering positive relationships with our youth. Our instructors will cover some real and important topics with the cadets, like online safety and good decision-making. The academy will allow them to ask questions, build their character, push their limits, but, most importantly, have fun.”
Session 1, for students entering 3rd grade through 5th grade, will be held from July 28 to August 1. Session 2, for students entering 6th grade through 8th grade, will be held from August 4 to August 8. Both sessions will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Orange-Ulster BOCES CTECH at 53 Gibson Road, Goshen.
Registration is now open. Spots are limited and will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.
For more information, email JPA@orangecountygov.com. To sign up online, visit www.orangecountygov.com/FormCenter/Sheriffs-Office-13/Junior-Police-Academy-Contact-171.