PROGRAM IS OPEN TO TEENS AGE 13-17

A decade ago, the Richardson Police Department held its first Youth Citizens Police Academy, and now it’s getting ready for its biggest class yet. Nearly 40 teens ages 13-17 are expected to participate in the week-long program next month, which is designed to provide first-hand information about how the department functions. Typically, the program sees 15-20 kids each
year.

“It’s been a huge hit. We’ve had numerous kids that are repeats,” said Officer David Beregszaszy. “They’ve gone through the academy before and have absolutely enjoyed it.” Beregszaszy, who has been running the program for seven years, has a son who will be a repeat attendee. He said he thinks the program is a great opportunity for teens to get to know the police and ask questions.

“I like the idea of being able to connect with the younger folks before they get into adulthood because there are a lot of misconceptions about police work in general,” he said.

From June 10-14, participants will be able to meet with different divisions and units of the Police Department and learn about how they operate. Some of the hands-on instruction will be in areas such as the K9 unit, SWAT, Drone (UAS) Program, Patrol Tactics, Communications, Crime Scene
Investigations, Criminal Investigations, Drunk and Distracted Driving, and Crash Investigations.

“I haven’t heard of one kid who’s gone through the program that regretted going,” Beregszaszy said.

At the end of the program, the teens will have a graduation, and some of them who are interested in a career in law enforcement will go on to become Law Enforcement Explorers. This is a work-site based program that gives the Explorers hands-on experience with officers. Beregszaszy said many of the Police Department’s current officers were once Explorers.

“Assistant Chief Coby Pewitt started off as an Explorer here,” he added. Beregszaszy said he’s enjoyed seeing how the program has had a positive impact on so many teens within the last 10 years and hopes to see it continue to grow.

“I think it’s great for the Police Department to communicate with the kids,” he said. “We want to be transparent with them. We want
them to trust us and let them come to us and ask us any questions.”

More information about the Youth Citizens Police Academy, Law Enforcement Explorers and applications can be found at
www.cor.net/Police.