Freehold Borough Police Officers Recognized for YPA Involvement

Time was taken out of the Freehold Borough Council meeting, to honor three police officers who dedicate their time to help run the Freehold Borough Youth Police Academy (YPA).

The YPA has been running in Freehold Borough for the last five years. It is a summer program designed to bring the community and police department closer together. Through the two-week program, Freehold Borough children are given an opportunity to experience what law enforcement is all about and get a better understanding of it.

“Everyone hears how great the program is, but few realize what it takes to make a program like this happen. The amount of work, self sacrifice and continuous effort that these three officers put forth is incredible,” said Police Chief Glenn Roberts. “The work that is required is not just during the two weeks of the program. Most of the effort happens throughout the year during the planning phase. This work extends way before the program starts and long after the program ends.”

Sgt. Andrew DeMuth, Sgt. Ronnie Steppat, and Patrolman Sean Healy, were the three officers honored Monday night. Roberts explained that without dedicated officers; the YPA would not be able to run as smoothly as it does. Roberts stated that although three officers were being honored for their involvement, many officers in the Freehold Borough Police Department are also involved in the program.

“The YPA is a shining example of the police department’s community involvement and this is always evident by the praise and gratitude that we receive from the parents at the end of the program. I commend Sgt. DeMuth, Steppat, and Officer Healy, for a tremendous job and for demonstrating to everyone that we are true professionals who care about our youth and community,” said Roberts.