By Amanda Spence
NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. — Teenagers in New York are receiving policing experience while getting paid at the same time during a six-week youth police academy program.
The New Rochelle Police Department is teaching the students, varying in ages from 14 to 17, by giving them a look into the law enforcement profession firsthand, PIX11 reported.
The students have spent a month of their summer learning from the department’s officers. Earlier this week, the teens met and trained with the department’s critical incident unit. They were also given the opportunity to see members of the K-9 unit in action while witnessing a bite demonstration with a German shepherd.
“I love dogs, so seeing the dog just run up and bite him and stuff, it was pretty cool,” said 16-year-old participant Derek Orelus.
And while the program is coming to an end, it’s safe to say the participants will carry the memories and skills with them beyond the training program.
“I learned a lot about the community,” said participant Erik Fuerte. “I learned a lot about the crimes in the community. I learned a lot about the officers.”
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