E.M.B.O.D.I.: Attitude, Respect, Communication

On Saturday, October 17, 2015, EMBODI participants attended their second program day of the year. The program topics included trends and interactions seen in the Jacksonville area between young males and law enforcement. Insight into the spread of gang activity throughout Jacksonville, the implications of such activity, and the impact on the community and the lives of minority males were given by Jacksonville Sheriff Officers Henry Rivers and Nuria Archbold.

Officer Archbold informed participants that minors (persons under the age of 18) in Florida commit the crime of sexting when they knowingly use any computer or electronic communication device to distribute any image or video that depicts nudity or sexual conduct to another minor. Sexting also applies to any situation where a minor receives and possesses a nude or explicit image transmitted by another minor. The penalty if tried as an adult can be up to 30 years in prison, fines, probation and registration as a sex offender. Therefore, “sharing is not caring!”

Participants were also introduced to Renata Hannans, a Caseworker and Youth Advocate for Communities in Schools. Ms. Hannans provided perspective from her incarcerated clients that committed crimes while minors for which they were convicted and tried as adults. Her personal account of her interactions with her clients was an eye opener to all in attendance.

At the end of the program day, role demonstrations were performed by Officers Rivers and Archbold on how to interact with law enforcement during various situations including vehicle stops. Participants were informed on the rationale behind certain questioning and protocol utilized by officers in certain situations. Ultimately, EMBODI participants were reminded that attitude, respect, and communication are vital tools in ensuring that their interaction with law enforcement as well as others determines the outcome of confrontational situations.