Local

New police program hopes to engage teens

MINT HILL, N.C. — It wasn’t just any basketball game. On Wednesday, police officers and mentors took on local teens at Rocky River High School as part of a new community program.

The Police Athletic/Activities League in Mint Hill hopes to engage teens and keep them out of trouble. 
PAL CEO Jeff Hood lives in the Mint Hill area and knows firsthand the challenges young people there can face.

“There are still communities and pockets where kids aren’t being engaged,” he said. “We need to be that agent in this community.”

According to Hood, a lack of engagement can lead to problems, including crime.

Numbers from the Mint Hill Police Department show 639 incidents over the last three years involving young people between the ages of 6 and 17. Over 220 were arrested for crimes related to drugs, assault and larceny.

But local police believe if kids have a positive role model, it can make a difference.

Mint Hill police Chief Tim Ledford and his officers are joining forces with PAL, helping to mentor area youth and offering athletic camps, hoping to break down negative stereotypes about police.

The department is looking for participants and adults to volunteer with the program. If you’re interested, you can contact the Police Department at 704-545-1085.

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