Sheriff Stanfield Announces Next Series of Classes for Youth Police Academy

Program Offers Quality Education on Safety, Fire, and Law Enforcement

Burlington County Sheriff Jean Stanfield announced today that classes will begin for her department’s Youth Police Academy on Saturday, March 10.

The first session of the program will take place over the course of three consecutive Saturdays, ending on March 24, with a graduation ceremony. The program is free and open to children ages 7 through 12.

“The Sheriff’s Department is excited to announce the continuation of this annual course which provides children of Burlington County a quality education on safety, fire, and law enforcement subjects through our Youth Police Academy,” said Sheriff Jean Stanfield.

“Our Youth Police Academy introduces students to the field of law enforcement,” added 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 avoiding abduction, fire and gun safety, police canine, emergency vehicles, and SWAT demosntration.

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.

“Just like the Police and Teens Together program, the Youth Police Academy provides an opportunity for youth and officers to connect and build stronger, positive relationships,” concluded Sheriff Stanfield.

Those interested in attending can call the Sheriff’s Community Services Unit at (609) 265–3788. 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.