Local law enforcement joined hands in fostering community connections and awareness at the Nicholls State University Law Enforcement Expo hosted recently. Berwick’s Assistant Police Chief J.P. Henry, alongside Lieutenant Quentin Menard, took the opportunity to enlighten students and attendees on crucial safety measures and the current opioid crisis.
In a backdrop that radiated kinship, Assistant Chief J.P. Henry expressed his team’s enthusiasm about their presence at the event. “We always look forward to this expo. It’s a fantastic platform for us to share valuable information on personal safety and to strengthen our ties with Nicholls State’s police force and other departments,” Henry described the collaborative spirit.
Littering their booth with informative literature and simple giveaways like keychains and candy, Berwick Police aimed to leave a sweet taste of positivity in visitors’ mouths about law enforcement roles. “Our goal is to portray a positive image of law enforcement and emphasize community importance,” Henry added, smiling.
Their efforts didn’t stop at confections; educational material also made its way into the hands of young scholars. “We’ve got special T-shirts for Nicholls students who hail from Berwick, echoing a message close to our department: ‘Buckle up,'” Henry underscored the importance of safe driving.
Henry also emphasized the severity of impaired driving beyond just alcohol, saying, “Driving high counts as a DUI too. Our attire carries an imperative message—’No more victims’—underscoring that any form of impaired driving is unacceptable.”
Berwick’s representation at the expo also shone a light on the dire opioid epidemic currently sweeping through regions nationwide. Handouts were distributed in hopes of educating and potentially turning the tides against this substantial threat. “If there’s anything we can do, it’s to spread awareness,” said Henry, highlighting their commitment to informing the public.