The Hoboken Junior Police Academy graduated 20 recruits last week after they completed a five-day session that included training exercises, drones, and self-defense, among other tactical skills.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“The Hoboken Junior Police Academy helps unite today’s youth and law enforcement officers. It also provides the young participants with a week of structure, education, and we hope some fun, all while introducing them to a possible career in law enforcement,” Hoboken Police Chief Steven Aguiar said in a statement.
The week-long academy ran the week of July 10th through July 14th this summer. 20 children ages 10 through 15, from Hoboken and Hudson County, went through the program and graduated on Friday, July 14th.
The academy is free for all and is sponsored by the Hoboken Police Department.
This year, in additional to physical exercises and drills, the recruits also enjoyed robotics demonstrations and a visit to the Hudson County Police Academy.
They also met the Jersey City Police Department’s K-9 officers, heard from investigators with the Hudson County Prosecutors Office, and learned about first aid and blood controlling techniques with the Hoboken Volunteer Ambulance Corps.
Dax Cohen, an 11-year-old recruit, gushed about the program.
“All the officers at Junior Police Academy taught me well, and I hope to see them again next year, now that I know how much fun it is and how much discipline is required,” said 11-year-old Dax Cohen, who is a sixth grader at Hoboken Middle School.
“Physical training was my favorite part, along with Ms. Sandy Shaw’s lesson on how to stop bleeding with a tourniquet.”
His mother, Kara Cohen, seems equally impressed by what her son learned at the youth academy.
“Dax was excited, but admittedly also a bit nervous going into the Junior Police Academy, but after day one, and every day following, he came home with enthusiasm and excitement telling and showing us everything he learned and did,” she stated.
“Dax walked away with a deeper understanding of the many facets of law enforcement, as well as an increased self-confidence in what he is capable of both physically and mentally. We are especially appreciative of the improved sense of respect and discipline he gained during JPA, although we will see how long that sticks around at home.”
This year’s Junior Police Academy staff included Lt. Edmond Drishti, Sgt. Christopher LaBruno, Officer Anthony Fesken, and retired Police Officer Robert Truppner.
To learn more about the Hoboken Junior Police Academy and see a highlight video from this year’s successful event, click here.
Editor’s note: This story was updated with comments from recruit Dax Cohen and his mother, Kara Cohen.
