VPD holds first UTURN class

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — Vicksburg Police Department Chief Deputy Tommy Curtis lead the first UTURN class at the VPD training room, Tuesday, Dec. 2.

Curtis, who spearheaded the program, explained it is geared toward teenagers and youth ages 12-17. The program encourages teens to turn away from negative choices and towards responsibility, purpose and community connection. 

The department partnered with Vicksburg Warren Youth Development Center, Warren County Youth Court and Vicksburg Warren School District to help guide teens toward better choices, stronger life skills and brighter futures. 

“We are here because we love you and care about you,” said Curtis to the room full of teenagers and their parents. “If we didn’t care about you, we’d let you hit the streets and end up at 1100 Grove Street.”

Warren County Detention Center is located at 1100 Grove Street in Vicksburg.

The program components will include twice monthly meetings, life skills and personal development, required parent/guardian participation, mandatory mentorship, and ongoing follow-up and support. Parent meetings will only be held about once a month. The classes are only about an hour in duration.

Vicksburg’s Mayor Willis Thompson was also present for the inaugural meeting.

“Something to keep in mind, is sometimes it takes one person who we meet in life that can change our lives,” said the Mayor to the teens. “I just want you to be open to what you might hear and see from these men and women in the Vicksburg Police Department.”

Also in attendance was Warren County Youth Court Judge Marcie Tanner Southerland.

“We have a dedicated Mayor, dedicated law enforcement and a dedicated community. We needed this,” said Judge Southerland. “I don’t want to see any of you back in youth court. This can help each and everyone of you gain the tools you need. Pay attention and participate!”

The mission statement of the program is to empower juvenile offenders and at-risk youth to redirect their lives through education, accountability, and positive community engagement. We believe that every young person deserves the chance to correct their course, discover their strengths, and build a foundation for long-term success.

For more information on the program contact Sergeant Lee Williams at 769-203-8500 or Investigator Sharonda Godbolt at 601-201-2619.