It was another day at the office for the sheriffs, attorneys, and jail guards, but for members of the Youth Leadership Jefferson County, it was a day of insight and hands-on experiences of the county's justice system. The tour of the jail was the most anticipated event for the students at the beginning of the day; and although it was still a highlight for many, others found sitting in on a court trial and watching a K-9 demonstration to be the most interesting.

The students began the day in a hearing room in the Jefferson County Courts and Administration Building with a warm welcome by Judge Brian Boatright. His opening speech provided even more excitement for the upcoming events of the day. The students then had the opportunity to sit in on two different trials including a drug case and a civil lawsuit. The trial most resembling an episode of Law and Order, however, was a case in which a mentally-handicapped minor was allegedly sexually assaulted. A debriefing afterwards lead to many questions being answered and a better understanding of what goes on inside the courts.

The District Attorney's office building was where the YLJC students made their next stop. There, a speaker from M.A.D.D. (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) presented some painful facts and helpful tips about drunk driving and underage drinking. A first-hand account from a survivor of a drunk-driving accident also shared his story, which really hit home for a lot of the students.

The next few activities included a presentation by District Attorney, Scott Storey, and a special K9 demonstration which was held outside the building. When questioned at lunch, Lakewood Sophomore, Emily Hoopes, and Evergreen Senior, Monica Bergevin agreed that the K9 demonstration was their favorite part of the day; especially when a sheriff wore a special sleeve that the dog was trained to bite when commanded. However, their day was far from over.

After lunch, the anxious students were able to tour the jail. The students filtered into the lobby and were then lead to a room where they were able to ask questions and get some information about the facility. Split into three groups, the kids were taken into different sectors of the jail. A group of excited girls were lucky to view the maximum security sector and were surprised at what they all witnessed. Certainly a place they did not want to visit under other circumstances! For many, it was a reality check, but all agreed it to be quite intriguing.

The day ended with an "online safety" talk by Resource Officer, Stacey Collins, and a wonderful, but intense presentation made by victim's advocate, J.J. Beattie. "Each part of the day was my favorite in different ways," commented Collegiate Academy junior, Calen Burne; many others agreed. It was a crash course in the justice system for these high school kids, but it left them all with a better understanding and appreciation for our local justice system.

The next Youth Leadership Jefferson County experience will be November 1st, when the group will visit Channel 4, and learn more about television and the media.