This week, 14 Eden Prairie residents ages 15–19 participated in the department’s second annual Youth Citizens Academy.

The free three-day program included several hands-on activities where students solved a crime using Crime Scene Tech Unit tools, checked motorist speeds with a speed laser, conducted a mock traffic stop and performed building searches with the SWAT team.

In addition, students met with members of the K-9 team, searched for a “suspect” with the Unmanned Aerial Systems (drone) team and learned from investigators and crisis negotiators about the various calls for service they encounter. On the final day, the Academy took place at the South Metro Public Safety Training Facility in Edina where students met with members of the SWAT team and toured the SWAT Bearcat.

Youth Citizens Academy is sponsored by the Eden Prairie Crime Prevention Fund.

We encourage young persons ages 14-20 interested in law enforcement to check out our Explorers program, and those over 18 to check out our Reserves program. Learn more at edenprairiemn.gov/EPPDVolunteers.