Cadets in the second junior police academy program hosted by the Lafayette Police Department are now graduates.
Throughout the week, kids ages 13-15 participated in a week-long program where they learned about various aspects of the police department and law enforcement, like narcotics. The cadets finished this week by meeting with the department's motors unit. They presented court cases to City Court Judge Douglas Saloom, took a tour of the courthouse, and met City Marshal Reggie Thomas and deputies with the Marshal's Office. They also served the community through service, including picking up trash in the city.
Friday, the cadets celebrated the week's accomplishments during a closing ceremony. Each cadet was issued a certificate of recognition by Lafayette Police Chief Thomas Glover.
The program held two sessions this summer, one in June and one in July. LPD hopes to continue the program next year.
It focused on increasing youth awareness and confidence, relationship building, learning the various aspects of law enforcement, and creating a better understanding between youth and police through education and a fun learning experience.
Along with all the learning, the cadets say they simply had fun.
"It was a very good learning experience for me," said cadet Ajah Jolivette. "I wasn't expecting to see all the things we got to see and I really do think more kids should sign up because it's really fun."
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