Special to the Transcript
The Summer Youth Academy run by Winthrop Police kicked off on Monday, August 4, 2025 for a jam packed week of events for sixteen (16) students and their teacher/chaperones, Officer Carlos Dutra, Sgt. Samantha Ferrino and Lt. Mary Crisafi, we. The Summer Youth Academy was established seven years ago under the direction of Deputy Chief Stephen Rogers, and he continues in this position today. With minimal funding, Winthrop Police was able to utilize their many contacts within the law enforcement community to introduce the youth to various experiences.
The week began with a visit to the US Air Marshalls local headquarters where students participated in a mock drill within a simulated airplane. The excitement was palpable. Massport Police hosted the group at the Cruise Terminal and provided a tour at the ultra secured container shipping lot. Another day consisted of a day trip via ferry to the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office, stopping along the way to visit the seals at the Aquarium, Columbus Park, Faneuil Hall, and the infamous TicToc playground at City Hall. After trial preparation with Jackie Lamont at the DA’s office, the group convened at the Edward Brooke’s courthouse where Judge Trussell addressed the students about life, the consequences of choices, compassion, and the importance of staying in school. Other days consisted of a tour of the harbor courtesy of Winthrop Harbormasters; a ride on WPD/WFD Highwater vehicle which culminated in a motor vehicle stop by Trooper Van Buskirk who greeted the youth; the importance of mind/body awareness was taught by local proprietor, Kathleen Coffey, at her studio, “Be the Light”; and the final day of the academy consisted of a tour the Suffolk County Nashua Street jail with a precautionary talk by a housed individual. After the gravity of not having freedom, lunch was taken at Piers Park in East Boston where the youth were allowed to exercise their freedom at the water park, on the pier, the exercise equipment, etc. The week culminated in certificates presented to the youth by Deputy Chief Rogers for completing a fun but educational week. Providing fuel for all this activity were Jimmy and Barbara from Winthrop House of Pizza! Thank you to all who open their hearts and doors to the group. Memories were made for a lifetime.