Bowling Green kids get a taste of police work

BOWLING GREEN, KY.- The Bowling Green Police Department, in partnership with Bike Walk BG, is hosting its Junior Police Academy to inspire young minds through hands-on learning and fun.

Children participating in the program get the chance to ride bicycles, solve mock crimes, and experience real-life policing scenarios.

Natasha Smith, Bike Walk BG Coordinator, says kids love the excitement of riding bikes and engaging in every part of the academy. Over just a few days, students process evidence, solve a pretend robbery, and even take part in a simulated courtroom trial. The program teaches essential road safety, including how to navigate two-way traffic, stop signs, railroad crossings, and pedestrian areas.

Melissa Bailey, a Patrol officer with the Bowling Green  Police Department, says,

“These lessons prepare children to be responsible cyclists and future drivers,” Melissa Bailey, a Patrol officer with the Bowling Green  Police Department, said.

More than just summer fun, the academy helps kids build confidence and valuable life skills. It also strengthens relationships between police officers and the community’s youth. Some graduates may even be inspired to join the force one day, following in the footsteps of their role models.