By By Lisa Tindell – news editor
A record number of teens participated in the annual Youth Police Academy this week and were exposed to many aspects of law enforcement.
More than 20 volunteers gave their sweat and time to make the program successful for another year, organizer Clair Sanborn said.
Sanborn said the generous contributions of finances and facilities from corporate sponsors are driving factors in keeping the popular academy alive.
During the weeklong event, participants were given first-hand knowledge of firearms, search and seizure operations, forensics studies and a variety of other areas.
Along with police officers who gave of their time to participate, Sanborn said many agencies also gave of their time and services.
Sanborn said the 37 students marked the largest group of participants to ever be hosted for the Academy.
The program, completing it's eighth year, included activities such as a visit from the Security Wing from Naval Air Station Whiting Field; the SWAT Team from Pensacola, Fla.; firearms training and the physical agility course in Atmore; defensive tactics and DUI; safety from internet predators; a Department of Forensic Sciences presentation on forensics investigations; the Brewton Police Department SERT team demonstration of building search procedures; the Escambia County Rescue Squad's teaching of a first Responder class; traffic accident investigations and many others.
For additional information or to find out how to be a part of the program, contact program coordinator Clair Sanborn, deputy sheriff with the Escambia County Sheriff's Office.