Media Release
Contact: Sheriff Frank Balles
 Phone: 609/909-7214
 E-Mail: balles_frank@aclink.org
February 05, 2009
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SPRING BREAK HAS A WHOLE NEW MEANING
        Whether it’s a family vacation or just a break from high school or college, most kids from ages 14-21 look forward to the Easter vacation.  Atlantic County Sheriff Frank Balles has a new reason for kids to be excited.
              The Sheriff’s Office is planning a Law Enforcement Explorer Academy April 13th thru April 17th, 2009.  Completion of this weeklong training will prepare these young men and women for the Law Enforcement Explorer Post, which meets throughout the year.  The Sheriff’s Office is actively searching for potential members throughout Atlantic County by visiting the area High Schools during the next few weeks.  The potential explorer will get the feel of a real police academy. It is a worksite-based program and the youth will participate in both physical and mental training during the week.   
 The Law Enforcement Explorer Post, a new addition to the County, will help youth to gain insight into a variety of hands-on career activities.  Registration is on a first- come -first serve basis.  There is a $15 fee and the class is limited to 25 students.   It is open to anyone who has completed eighth grade and are 14 years of age, or are 15 years of age but have not yet reached his or her 21st birthday.  They will learn from experts in their respective fields of Law Enforcement.  Activities will include tours of the Atlantic County Sheriffs’ Office, Harborfields Juvenile Detention Facility, and the Atlantic County Corrections Facility.  They will also visit the Criminal/Civil Courthouses and learn about Courtroom Security.
 “My law enforcement career began with volunteering as an Auxiliary Police Officer.  If your son or daughter has any interest in this field, it is a great opportunity.  During these economic times, a family vacation may not be in your budget.  This would be a great alternative,” Sheriff Balles said.  “It is wonderful to be able to run this program countywide, allowing friends and relatives from different towns to attend together.  It also allows them to broaden their circles, meeting new people.”
  Interested youth can obtain more information by contacting Sheriff Officer Darren Aberman at 909-7240 or Aberman_darren@aclink.org.  Deadline for sign-ups will be April 1st, 2009
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