Teens Learn How To Do Police Work In Baltimore Co.
TOWSON, Md. (WJZ) -- Learning how to be a police officer. That's what nearly 30 Baltimore County teens are doing this week.
Andrea Fujii explains that the goal of the youth program is really about how to be a community leader.
Some teens got an up close and personal look at police work. Working with police officers was just part of the Youth Leadership Academy, a one-week course for Baltimore County teens put on by the Baltimore County Police Department.
"They learn about what we do and why we do the things that we do. They take this back to their communities," said Officer Dennis Claridge, Baltimore County Police.
Junior Shakara Silas is preparing for her future career as an attorney.
"I've really all my life been a really big fan of law enforcement, like just the whole criteria of policemen," said Silas, Dulaney High School.
Besides some fun and games, it's a hands-on experience with crime investigations. Some who've come through the program have joined the force.
"We've had several of our cadets and officers that have been through the Youth Leadership Academy in the past," said Claridge.
That's recent graduate Brandon Williams' path.
"For me, I hope to get out of this to be an officer, a better cadet, as I grow up in the future," said Williams, Franklin High School graduate.
Students are getting a head start on leading their communities.
"Doing the best I can, to keep the world safe," said Williams.
At the end of the week there will be a graduation ceremony as some of the students will start life after high school.
This will be the fourth year for the free Youth Leadership Academy.
