BY SARAH STEPHENS
ELMORE/AUTAUGA NEWS
Photos by Sarah Stephens and the Millbrook Police Department
The final Millbrook Police Department Junior Police Academy for 2021 came to an end on Friday, with 18 campers graduating. The week was led by Lt. Stephen Youngblood and School Resource Officer Kristen Godwin.
Each day last week, the campers took part in a variety of activities, designed to give them a better understanding of the real duties of a police officer. They were reminded that officers are just like them, they have families and friends and they chose this profession because they want to make their communities better.
“Every single one of you pushed through it, worked hard and proved you could do it,” Officer Godwin said.
The week was full of activities and learning experiences, she said. Millbrook Middle School was the location of the camp.
Beginning on Monday, the class learned ceremonial activities, and athleticism. They also learned about field sobriety.
“They were able to put on ‘Drunk Goggles’. They were supposed to walk in a straight line, but they all went to jail,” Godwin said, with laughter erupting. “They were able to drive a golf cart with the drunk goggles on.”
They also discussed criminal laws, covering different charges. There was also a Taser demonstration where Stanhope Elmore High School Principal Ewell Fuller volunteered to be Tased.
On Tuesday the campers heard from Pastor Peter Cova to talk about character building, citizenship, self respect and leadership.
Lt. Stephen Youngblood also demonstrated his drone to the campers and explained how officers can use them in a variety of ways.
They then learned about traffic stops and building clearing. Campers learned that in dangerous situations, such as when a suspect runs, the first option is NOT to shoot.
“We want to make sure people are following the law. The only time we pull our gun out is it is because your life is in danger. We wanted to make sure the kids understand that,” Godwin said.
On Wednesday, campers were able to learn about SWAT, and self defense.
Thursday they met Officer Webb and his K-9 partner. They learned how the officer searches for illegal drugs. From there they learned about crime scenes and how evidence is obtained.
On Friday they endured a small dose of what a real Police Academy is like, particularly with exercise and endurance. They also learned about handcuffs and batons. They covered bullying and the internet.
“We want them to know that it is important to show respect to everyone, especially to themselves,” Godwin said.
Mayor Al Kelley congratulated the students for taking part, and thanked the parents, grandparents and family members who brought them each day.
“They had a great time. Thank you for letting us borrow them for the week. It is a great program,” Kelley said.
Assistant Chief Johnny Montgomery talked to the campers and performed the swearing in ceremony.
“Congratulation to the campers and the parents as well,” Montgomery said. “Hopefully you learned a lot more about officers that wear these uniforms. I know they can be a little intimidating at some times, with the uniforms and the weapons they carry. But we are here to protect and serve. And we want you to do the same. We want you to be better classmates and better citizens.”
Montgomery stressed there is so much more to a daily officer’s duties that what can be seen in television or the media. He said that as the students age, and begin to drive, it is important for them to remember all they have learned in the week, and how they can interact with officers safely.
With that, the campers were given the oath, where they agreed to be productive citizens, follow the law, help fight crime by calling police or notifying their parents about suspicious activity.
Each camper was recognized. Among them was a very special camper Nick Frazier, and his parents. Nick is legally blind, but with help from his parents throughout the week, he completed the training. He received his certificate, but so did his parents who were there every step of the way. They are Michael and Tina Frazier.
If you are interested in having your child take part in future academies, you can contact the Millbrook Police Department now and have your child’s name added to the list for next year. The number of camps depend on the number of interested kids.
Thank you to all officers and individuals who helped make these two camps this year a huge success.
See more photos below including each student with their certificate and activities throughout the week.
