Josh Marshall cupped his hand on the window of a Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office vehicle to get a good view of the inside.Then he dusted for his own writer’s impression and captured the print, just as a real crime scene investigator would.The rising sixth-grader said he’s learned a lot about working in the sheriff’s office during the weeklong Junior Law Enforcement Academy.“I like trying new stuff,” Marshall said. “And I like to see what my mom and dad do at work, because they’re cops.”Sixty-six preteens gathered at Otwell Middle School for the free camp last week, during which they studied different aspects of law enforcement.The emergency vehicle driving course (done in golf carts) and the shooting training (with pellet guns) often are some of the kids’ favorite activities, said Courtney Spriggs of the agency’s community relations unit.They also spent the week learning about the SWAT team, crime scene investigation, defensive tactics, court proceedings and traffic stops.The week wrapped up with a day of demonstrations with special equipment and units followed by a graduation.Now in its third year, the program has generated a positive response from parents and graduates, Spriggs said.“Parents of kids who came to the first one say they still talk about it,” she said. “The goal is to get an honest idea about what we do, and I guess that sticks with them.”Jack Harkins said the camp grew his interest in entering the field when he’s an adult.“In case we ever do become a cop, we already know what to expect,” Harkins said.
Lessons in law enforcement
Academy helps shape perceptions