Teens Learn About Law Enforcement at the Sheriff's Teen Citizen's Academy

Deputy Jason Philpot is one of more than 100 sworn deputies who patrols out of the Santee station of the .

But even though he carries a badge, he wanted those in attendance at the first day of the to know he's not that much different from them.

"I'm a real person like them," he said during a break in the session. "It's like I tell them, I'm not a donut-eating, ticket-writing jerk."

For fun, Philpot says, he enjoys riding a skateboard and playing video games.

Students, ages 13-19, who attended the first of the two-day classes learned many aspects of what it takes to be a deputy. For instance, they were told officers such as Philpot had to learn to do their best to be polite and professional to everyone they come in contact with, even if the citizen they happen to deal with .

The day started out with a brief presentation of  laws that teenagers may find themselves subject to, such as , "texting" or using a cellular telephone without a or "."

They were advised against such behavior, particularly if they aspired to careers in law enforcement, lest unsavory images or videos turned up in a background check.

Those seriously considering a career as a deputy were urged to participate in the department's Explorers program. The program prepares them for a physically and mentally demanding academy that is a prelude to the real thing.

There were demonstrations of the weapons of law enforcement, such as tasers, automatic weapons and gear. Students were invited to try them on, some of the smaller ones struggling under the weight of a heavy SWAT jacket and helmets.

Some in attendance were anxious to learn about the possibilites if other aspects of law enforcement. Kelsey Bavencoff was interested in a presentation by county crime scene technician Adam Houg, a latent print examiner. Bevencoff, a 19-year-old Santee resident, hopes to major in forensic science.

The daughter of law enforcement parents, Bavencoff said she became interested in the possibility of using science to help solve crimes as a fan of such TV shows as "Bones."

She also urged anyone interested to seriously consider participating in the department's Explorers program.

 "I  think it's a great opportunity for teens," she said. "It's  great even if you don't want to go into law enforcement, just to know what's going on."

Barbara Wallace, the crime prevention specialist organizing the events, said it has been several  years since such a program was organized in Santee. Wednesday's class included a tour of the station and a look at deputy's patrol cars. Thursday's class included a trip to for demonstrations that include a look at the department's aerial surveillance program known as ASTREA.

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