The Law Enforcement Against Drugs (L.E.A.D.) program is a joint effort by LEAD certified law enforcement officers, educators, students, parents, and the community to offer an educational program in the classroom as well as real life assistance outside of the classroom. This program, thanks to it’s officers, are going to prevent or reduce drug abuse and violence among children and youth. The L.E.A.D curriculum has proven effective in reducing adolescent alcohol, marijuana, and tobacco use in students by preparing students to act decisively in refusing offers to use drugs, and helping students to recognize the risks and avoid drug-related situations. It also focuses on building strong decision-making, communication, planning and assertive refusal skills. At the core of the program is empowering youth to value their own perceptions and feelings and make choices that support drug-free values. The Hackensack Police Department currently teaching 2nd and 5th Grade classes.
The Hackensack Police Youth Academy is a one-week academy held during the summer months. The goal of the Police Youth Academy is to give each recruit an idea of the type of training that is required to become a police officer, while allowing Police Officers the ability to bond with the youth of our community. The five-day curriculum includes various presentations from guest law enforcement agencies, field trips, military drill and physical training. The Hackensack Police Youth Academy started in 2001 and has graduated an average of 85 cadets each year. We are looking forward to the start of each class; registration begins in May. For further information contact the School Threat Assessment and Crime Prevention Bureau at 201-646-7730.