INDIANAPOLIS — This week at Anderson University, high schoolers interested in a career in policing are getting the experience of a lifetime.
The Indiana Youth Cadet Law Enforcement Academy was created by the American Legion Department of Indiana and the Indiana State Police. The week-long camp lets teenagers see what it's like to work in law enforcement.
Students try out multiple scenarios and learn what it's like to be on a SWAT team, K9-unit, bomb squad and active shooter situations.
"Since I've been doing it for seven years, it's not only the growth throughout the week but the growth throughout the years. I've seen students go from cadet keens to junior counselors, to troopers," Sgt. Jeremy Piers, a spokesperson with Indiana State Police said.
"I didn't understand that they had this many opportunities and types of careers. You can still be in law enforcement even if you don't want to be a police officer," Gus Walling, a youth cadet who is a rising college freshman said.
"We've actually had parents come to us after the program and say that it changed their child's life," Ron Patterson, Chairman of The Indiana Youth Law Cadet Academy said. "They went from being unruly and with no respect, to say, 'yes ma'am, no sir,' and they come back a second time. I think that is something I take away from this."
More than 70 high schoolers joined the camp.
ISP troopers say these camps can help improve the image of law enforcement and recruit the next generation.
-
Former teacher settles after long religious discrimination lawsuit
Brownsburg Community School Corporation has agreed to pay $650,000 to a former high school orchestra teacher after a nearly eight-year long religious discrimination lawsuit.
Delay in zoning decision unanimously approved for Metrobloks data center
The city's Department of Metropolitan Development Commission unanimously approved a delay in a zoning decision on a proposed data center on the city's east side.
Ausome Indy expands its autism support network to include dads
Ausome Indy, known for its moms' network, is now creating a space for fathers of children with autism, as CDC data shows one in 31 children is affected.
New community assessment reveals top 5 health issues facing Marion Co residents
The Marion County Public Health Department revealed the top 5 health issues facing residents across the county. The new community health assessment hopes to plan next steps for better health outcomes.