### Vicksburg Police Announce Youth Outreach Initiative
The Vicksburg Police Department introduced a new youth intervention effort called the **U-Turn Program** during Tuesday’s meeting of the Board of Mayor and Aldermen. The initiative focuses on guiding at-risk youth away from criminal behavior and toward positive life choices.
### Purpose and Approach
Police officials explained that the program aims to create a support structure for young people who have already had minor contact with law enforcement or who show warning signs of risky behavior. By pairing these teens with community mentors, the department hopes to "steer young lives back on track before they enter the criminal justice system."
### Collaboration and Activities
The U-Turn Program will operate through partnerships with local schools, churches, and youth-based organizations. Participants will take part in educational sessions, community projects, and one-on-one counseling. The program also includes workshops on conflict resolution, decision-making, and life skills training.
### Leadership Comments
Vicksburg Police Chief Penny Jones emphasized the department’s role in prevention rather than punishment:
> “This is about giving our youth a second chance and showing them that there’s another way,” Jones said. “If we can help even one young person make better choices, then we’ve succeeded.”
### Community Response
Local leaders expressed optimism about the potential of the program to reduce juvenile crime and strengthen the relationship between police officers and residents. The initiative was welcomed as a proactive step toward long-term community well-being.
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**Author summary:** The Vicksburg Police Department launched the U-Turn Program to mentor at-risk youth, offering education, mentorship, and skill-building to prevent future criminal involvement.
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The Vicksburg Post — 2025-11-29