Jail program an eye-opener

I took both of my sons to Caddo Correctional Center on Wednesday for the Don’t Let This Be You program. I didn’t take them because they’ve been in trouble; I took them because I want them to be fully aware of the things that will land them in jail or prison.
Believe me, it was an eye-opening experience. The event began with a lecture from Caddo District Judge Scott Crichton and Assistant District Attorney Ron Stamps. During the lecture, youths were told what activities are identified as crimes and what the punishments are for those crimes. They learned that if they are in the vehicle with someone who has drugs, they all can go to jail. They heard how drugs can affect peoples' lives. They also saw what can happen if you ride in a vehicle without wearing a seat belt.
Stamps’ brother, who served time in prison, also addressed the group. During his presentation, he displayed a large board full of make-shift weapons inmates at CCC had made.
After the lecture came the tour. We toured both the male and female section of the facility where some of the inmates were given the opportunity to speak to the youths. The somber expressions on most of the youths’ faces, my children included, indicated that what was being said was sinking in.
There’s another tour and lecture scheduled next week. Same place, same time. But in case you missed it here it is: 6 p.m. Feb. 6, media room at Caddo Correctional Center, 1101 Forum Drive in Shreveport. To register, call Andrea Samuel at the Caddo Sheriff’s Regional Training Academy at (318) 681-0735.
And remember, the program isn’t just for teens who have been in trouble. So take your teens. You’ll be glad you did. A voluntary trip to Caddo Correctional Center now beats an involuntary trip later.