Leaders in Prevention

Recognizing a serious need to prevent the exploitation of Florida's Manatee County's youngest citizens, Sheriff Charles B. Wells implemented the Child Lures Community Plan throughout his jurisdiction.

Using drug interdiction funds, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office partnered with the Junior League of Manatee County, Bradenton/East Manatee Herald and WWSB-TV to:

1. Broadcast the Child Lures Television News Series on WWSB-TV
2. Provide a Child Lures School Program kit to each of the 46 local schools
3. Distribute a Child Lures Parent Guide (in English and Spanish) to each of Manatee County's 24,000 students
4. Sponsor Kenneth Wooden's training seminars for law enforcement, educators and the community-at-large

STATEMENT:

"Since Mr. Wooden made his public presentation in Manatee County, in October, 2000, we have had positive feedback and overwhelming public request for more on Child Lures Prevention.

We are implementing Child Lures Prevention training for all students in grades K-12. This is being accomplished in partnership with our school board, with instruction by our school resource officers. In addition, we offer the presentation to the public through our Crime Prevention program. The Child Lures Community Plan includes the school program, a custom-designed parent guide, a television news series and accredited training, each providing methods for safeguarding children.

With the national increase of crimes against children, we feel obligated to provide education and training that focuses on how to keep children safe from exploitation and abduction. We hope by understanding the lures used by molesters a person can take steps to prevent these horrible crimes from happening, and we hope you recognize the importance of this information as a model for your community."

      – Sheriff Charles B. Wells

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