Security forces to net better relationship with teenagers

  • Published
  • By Noel Getlin
  • Team Eglin Public Affairs
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Cops from the 96th Security Forces Squadron have a court date with base teenagers. 

The police are challenging Eglin teens to a game of basketball from 6 to 8 p.m. April 17 at the Youth Center. 

"Everyone is excited about it," said Tech. Sgt. Heidi Reilly, 96th SFS investigations juvenile officer. In fact, she said the smack talk has already begun. "The kids at Lewis Middle School have told us we're old and can't play." 

No matter who wins, there will be plenty of prizes for participants. A free throw tournament after the game will provide another opportunity to win. 

Sergeant Reilly said today's teens deal with bullying, alcohol and drug abuse. This is a way for police to reach out to teenagers to let them know they are there for them, for guidance, for help and to teach the kids how to stay safe. 

"Many kids are scared of us," Sergeant Reilly said. But she hopes to change that. 

"We want to foster relationships with the teens on base," said Staff Sgt. Seldrick Moore, 96th SFS investigator. "Many of the kids associate us with negative things. We want them to know us in a positive light." 

The event comes at a crucial time as the school year winds down. 

"Summer months see an upswing of juvenile crimes," said Sergeant Reilly. "When kids get bored, there's more vandalism." 

A rash of vandalism occurred in vacant housing on base in recent months. The problem isn't just a nuisance, it's a safety issue. While the base continues asbestos cleanup efforts, exposure is a risk. 

"I would hate to see some kids go in and be exposed to asbestos," she said. 

The police hope the game will be the first of many games or events to engage children on base. 

For more information on the game, call Sergeant Moore at 2-7274.