January 19, 2016
The Richmond Police Department and Richmond Public Schools are proud to launch the LIFE Program, which is aimed at reducing the frequency and disparity of in-school juvenile arrests.
“Introduction to the criminal justice system comes too soon for many of
Virginia’s young people,” said Police Chief Alfred Durham. “We see the
LIFE program as a way to intervene and help at-risk youth make positive choices
and become emerging leaders in their community.
Based on
the evidence-based TAPS Academy program used across the nation, the 9-week LIFE
program targets at-risk young people age 13-19, who’ve been involved in
potentially criminal incident that could lead to their arrest. Instead, they
are offered an alternate learning opportunity focused on constructive life
lessons and enhancing that student’s ability for success.
“The
launch of the LIFE program is a clear representation of the strong partnership
between the Richmond Police Department and Richmond Public Schools,” said Dr.
Dana Bedden, Superintendent of Richmond Public Schools. “We commend our local
law enforcement for recognizing the need to provide our at-risk students with a
positive alternative to help get their life back on the path to success and
directly contribute to uplifting their communities."
The LIFE program not
only provides an alternative to juvenile arrest, but breaks down barriers
between law enforcement and the youth while affecting positive change in their
educational future. Each participant will gain knowledge of the criminal
justice system and healthy lifestyle choices and receive access to numerous
educational and social resources.
