Fall River Teen Police Academy Returns This Summer

If you have a child that is interested in a career in law enforcement, the Fall River Police Department is hosting two sessions of a police academy geared directly towards teens. It's a chance for young people to challenge themselves and train with local police officers.

Not only will the kids learn about the physical fitness that it takes to become a police officer, they will also gain first hand knowledge from guest speakers that are currently working in different aspects of law enforcement.

Sgt. Joseph Galvao said that some of the more popular guest speakers have been the forensic detectives and SWAT team members from the Massachusetts State Police.

Sgt. Galvao said that while interest in becoming a police officer may be a little down, "no matter what, there's always going to be that group of kids that still have an interest," he said.

"Even with what is going on in the country, I still think they look at our profession as something that they strive to be when they get older," Sgt. Galvao said. "There's still a strong interest there in protecting their community."

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The academy is absolutely free, and will be split into two different age groups, one for middle schoolers and another for high school students. The academy for grades six through eigh will be held the week of July 12-16. High school aged students will attend August 9-13. The Fall River Teen Police Academy will run 9 a.m. to 3 p..m, Monday through Friday. Breakfast and lunch will be served.

If you are interested in signing up your teen, you can fill out an application form.