INDIANAPOLIS – Nearly 100 young men learned how to behave when approached by a police officer Thursday during a summer camp session.
The class, full of African-American boys ages 7 to 18, was part of a camp run by Rev. Malachi Walker, who said the class was much needed after IMPD officers shot and killed Aaron Bailey last week during a traffic stop.
Walker told the young men to refrain from making any sudden movements when in the presence of police.
“Don't bend down and reach into certain areas like under the seats, or in door pockets and things like that. Keep your hands visible where the police officer can see you,” he said.
Camp counselor 16-year-old Jerrod Hubbard said it’s about obeying authority.
"When you are in that type of situation it's called obeying authority. No matter how good or bad they were,” said Hubbard. “You have to do what they say..."
Mayor Joe Hogsett served as one of the camp’s guests where he spoke with the young men about the recent incident.
"We must look out for each other. That is the message,” said Hogsett. “That's really the message. I think these young men are hearing loud and clear. Be responsible. Look to the future, make good choices and in doing so I think the future is unlimited."
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