7/13/2009 - The Portland Police Department Youth Services Division is proud to announce the formation of the Portland Police Athletic League.

The Police Athletic League (PAL) is a youth crime prevention program that utilizes educational, athletic and recreational activities to create trust and understanding between police officers and youth. It is based on the conviction that young people - if they are reached early enough - can develop strong positive attitudes towards police officers in their journey through life toward the goal of maturity and good citizenship. The PAL p5ropgram brings youth under the supervision and positive influence of a law enforcement agency and expands public awareness about the role of a police officer and the reinforcement of the responsible values and attitudes values and attitudes instilled in young people by their parents.

Studies have shown that if a young person respects a police officer on the ball field, gym or classroom, the youth will likely come to respect the laws that police officers enforce. Such respect is beneficial to the youth, the police officer, the neighborhood and the business community.

We will be hosting an open house for interested applicants and their parents or guardians on July 19, 2009 from 12pm until 4pm at the Portland Police Department.

Scheduled events will include the presentation of colors by the Portland Police Color Guard, and presentations of the following specialties:

• K-9
• SRT (special Reaction Team)
• Hostage Negotiators
• Hazardous Devices Unit (Bomb Squad)
• Evidence Technicians
• Dive Team
• Defensive Tactics

There will also be a tour of the police station and a cookout. Guest speakers will include Portland Police Chief James Craig, an executive representative from the Boy Scouts of America, Portland Police Sergeant Charles Liddy and Portland Police Officer Timothy Farris.

Please join us for this highly anticipated event, we look forward to meeting you.

RSVP to this event by 07/16/2009 at explorer@portlandmaine.gov