TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) - Free reality checks for teens are being offered by the Leon County Sheriff's Office to teach them the consequences of crimes.
Separate sessions of Reality Check with LCSO will be held for boys and girls. Boys will meet July 24 to 26 from 8 a.m. to noon. Girls will meet from July 31 to August 2 from 8 a.m. to noon.
Drop off will be as early as 7:30 a.m. and pick up by 1 p.m. Lunch will be provided. The participants must be from 14 to 18 years old.
This first-time program for the sheriff's office can accommodate up to 25 teens in each of the two sessions, said Deputy David Teems, an LCSO spokesperson.
He said two inmates will share details of their lives with each group.
The program came about because of parents asking the sheriff's office for help in informing their children about what would happen if they pursue a life of crime, he said.
The program is drawing supportive comments on the sheriff's Facebook page. One person said that "Every county needs this!" and another suggested that "Multiple sessions throughout the year and held of weekend or school holidays would be great too."
Over the three days, the teens will cover various topics:
- Tuesday - Tour the Leon County Detention Facility and hear from inmates on their life experiences
- Wednesday - Meet U.S. Attorney Canova and experience the BLAST Program with interactive sessions, including a use-of-force stimulator.
- Thursday - Group Chat/Mentoring Session with Sheriff Walt McNeil, LCSO deputies and Fellowship of Christian Athletes.
To apply for the limited slots, an email address is given: wallacem@leoncountyfl.gov.
