Congratulations to all of this year's Youth Police Program cadets!  The Swatara Township Police Department wrapped up their annual Youth Police Program this past Friday.  This year's program included 17 cadets ages 13-15 from throughout the Harrisburg area.  The five day program provides an insight for youth into the world of policing.  Topics of instruction include Police Forensics, Police K-9, Traffic Enforcement, DUI Education, Anti-Drug Education, Use of Force, Interviewing for Policing and more.  A special Thank You goes out to the Penn State Pediatric Trauma Prevention Unit, Swatara Township Fire Department and the PA Game Commission for the special guest appearances they provided.  It was great having additional outside agencies come in and talk to the kids about how their work intertwines with law enforcement.  We would also like to thank DeMolay International for being a sponsor for this program.  DeMolay International is a youth organization for young men between the ages of 12 and 21, and helps develop leadership skills and good moral character. 

It was such a joy getting to know the 17 cadets on a more personal level and teach them about policing in Pennsylvania.  Some of the cadets have goals of becoming police officers someday while others simply wanted to learn more about what we do behind the scenes.  Overall, this was a great experience not only for the children in attendance but for our officers as well since it provided an opportunity for us to build strong, positive relationships with the youth who live throughout the communities we serve.  This program is held every June and is open to outside residents as well.  Stay tuned to our web portal in March of 2023 for information on next year's Youth Police Program.