U.S. Attorney Jason R. Coody | U.S. Department of Justice
The United States Attorney’s Office, in collaboration with the Tallahassee Police Department and Leon High School, is organizing a BLAST event at Leon High School on Thursday, November 7. The program aims to facilitate interaction between students and law enforcement officers by providing an opportunity for dialogue and understanding.
According to the organizers, "the program is based on the belief that young people and law enforcement officers can benefit from spending time together discussing challenges and perspectives on law enforcement to reach a better understanding of each other." This interaction seeks to enhance relationships and build trust.
During the three-hour session, officers will share insights into handling dangerous or uncertain situations. Agencies involved include the ATF, DEA, FBI, United States Marshals Service, and the Tallahassee Police Department.
Media representatives are invited to attend most segments of the BLAST (Building Lasting Relationships Between Police and Community) program. The event will take place at Leon High School from 8:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. EST. Media personnel are requested to RSVP via email if they plan to attend.
The schedule includes various discussion sessions where students can engage in role-play activities with officers:
- Federal Crimes Scenario: Students analyze video scenarios covering investigation through sentencing phases of federal criminal cases.
- Domestic Response / K-9 Demonstration: A scenario involving response to domestic disturbances highlights officer challenges and K9 capabilities.
- Traffic Stop Simulation: Participants alternate roles as civilians and officers during traffic stops.
- Use of Force: Discussions focus on when force may be used by officers; this session is closed to media but reporters can try simulator equipment afterward.
- The Way Forward - Returning from Prison: A former inmate shares his journey back into society.
For further details about the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida, visit their official website.
