SAPIS use mock trial to teach students about drugs

Thanks to the valuable work of hundreds of SAPIS employees in the New York City public school system, impressionable youngsters have counselors who guide them away from the perils of drugs.

To make sure the anti-drug message has been driven home, Barclay Edwards, a member of Local 372 and a SAPIS III in the District 5 Drug Prevention Program, had a group of junior high school students recreate a drug trial.

Carmela Santos from PS 129 was one of the 15 students who participated in the program on June 5 at the Harlem Justice Center. “I thought these mock trials were very interesting,” said the aspiring attorney. “I would like to study law in college and become a lawyer.”

The 15 students who participated in the program attend PS 129 and PS 194 in Manhattan’s District 5. Jeff Davis, an assistant district attorney, served as the judge. ADAs Terril Ballou and Ikishee Shabazz coached the students.

“Hopefully, from this experience the students will see a better alternative,” said Mr. Edwards. “They will get the message by being exposed to the law at an early age.” Pressie Taylor, who attends PS 194 and is on the school basketball team, agrees. “I’m glad I participated in the program,” said Taylor. “The criminal justice system is something I plan on avoiding.”