The Worthington Police Department is launching a new initiative aimed at strengthening the bond between law enforcement and local youth through its upcoming Junior Police Academy.

Designed for children ages 8 to 12, the one-day academy will take place on Friday, July 19, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Linton Fraternal Order of Police, located at 1926 County Road 1100 West in Linton.

“Junior police academies offer young people a unique opportunity to explore the little-known details of law enforcement careers, build a stronger relationship with local law enforcement, and develop valuable social skills to help them when faced with difficult situations,” said Worthington Police Department Deputy Marshal Caleb Ray.

Ray said the department was motivated to start the program in response to the growing divide between law enforcement and today’s youth.

“We wanted to start this program due to the tremendous gap between today's youth and law enforcement officers. I know from experience, these types of programs have a long-lasting impact on a child’s attitude toward public safety,” he said.

Academy participants will get hands-on experience and education through a variety of activities, including a K-9 demonstration, an Air-Evac helicopter demonstration, a drone demonstration, and an obstacle and challenge course.

Applications are available at Worthington Town Hall, located at 20 S. Commercial Street in Worthington.

For more information, contact Ray at ray@worthingtonpolice.com.