Yesterday at Eastside High School teenagers were able to experience a different side of law enforcement through the Blast program that offers a chance for students to build relationships and trust with officers.
This is the first time the Blast program has come to Gainesville. A number of agencies teamed up for the event, including the Alachua County Sheriff’s office.
About 80 students used the firearms simulator that allowed the participants of the program to virtually experience a life-threatening situation.
After going through the program, students begin to understand another perspective and learn more about law enforcement officers’ work.
Sheriff Sadie Darnell said it’s yet another way local law enforcement is trying to build relationships with young people. The hope is that building perspectives will lead to the safer interactions in other settings.