Coachella students get lesson in SWAT training

Select students in Coachella are exploring careers in law enforcement this summer. As KESQ News Channel 3 and CBS Local 2’s Lauren Coronado reports, members of the Riverside County SWAT team visited the Coachella Summer Youth Program on Thursday for a demonstration.

The program is geared toward middle school youth who have a passion for law enforcement. The students told Coronado that they want to be heroes in their community.

The Riverside County SWAT team met with 30 exemplary middle school students from Coachella. The students are enrolled in the Coachella Summer Youth Program and they’re learning the ropes of law enforcement.

Learn about the Riverside County sheriff’s Coachella Summer Youth Program

Student Jose Rojas said, “My favorite thing to be able to do today is to see police and SWAT come here to talk to us about guns and how they work.”

Sheriff’s deputy Damine Ruiz said the program is an educational way to get kids excited about careers in law enforcement.

“These children that are here right now have an interest or curiosity for law enforcement,” said Ruiz. “Our purpose in putting together this program is to share with them what we do, that way they have a better understanding.”

The group took a field trip to Lake Cahuilla where students got a first-hand look at the responsibilities that come with being a SWAT officer. Students were even able to explore a Bearcat.

Student Leandra Osuna said, “A lot of people need help, and there’s so much wrong with our community and to do anything better if we can.”

Learn about the Riverside Police Department’s Explorer Post Dangerous Heat Wave continues in the desert Watch KESQ News Channel 3 & CBS Local 2 online Read: Crime making headlines around the valley