CBS Miami: Teen Talk Working to Build Relationship Between Young People and Police
CBS Miami followed a group of teens from Liberty City through a day of Teen Talk, a program built to bridge the divide between young people and police.
The day started with tough conversations about how to handle an encounter with an officer. Some of the students had never witnessed a positive interaction with police. Much of the discussion was driven by the students' own questions, and officers answered them directly, including warnings about what shows up on social media.
Students also toured Miami Police Headquarters, where officers demonstrated how the 911 system works, including its video features. The day closed with an etiquette lesson at Red Rooster, a finishing touch meant to build the students' confidence in new settings and remind them they belong there.
"One of the things I always share with the kids whenever I meet with them is that I let them know that in my eyes and in the eyes of the people they work with, they are priceless."Ruban Roberts, to CBS Miami
Roberts told CBS4 the work does not end with one day. It is one step along the way. As he put it, the sky is the limit, and that is what the program wants to show them.