Traffic Stop for Teens

            Teen drivers ages 15-17 may learn how to respond safely when stopped by law enforcement officers during a free class from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.,Saturday, Dec.9 at Patterson Park Community Center.

            The Traffic Stop for Teens class will give young drivers a better understanding of a law enforcement officer’s mindset is when stopped by a vehicle and to discuss the anxiety the teen driver may feel when getting pulled over, said Rutherford County Sheriff’s Sgt. Jimmy Cassidy.

            Cassidy and Deputy Melvin Cunningham, who developed the class, will instruct teens on what they can to put both the teen and officer at ease during a traffic stop.

            “Our goal is to save lives and promote safety for both the police and teens in traffic stops,” Cassidy said.

            The teens will participate in a mock traffic stop.

            “They’re going to get to see what to expect and get an officer’s mindset when pulled over so they will know how to react,” Cassidy said.

            Students must have their driver’s license or permit to take the class. Applications are available at Patterson Park Community Center at 521 Mercury Blvd. in Murfreesboro or at the Sheriff’s Office at 940 New Salem Highway. The applications may be returned to Patterson Park or the Sheriff’s Office by 4 p.m. Friday.

            For more information, contact Cassidy at 615-904-3019.