The Coconut Creek Police Department has received statewide recognition from the Florida Police Chiefs Association. The department won the Rocky Pomerance Law Enforcement Excellence Award in the large agency category for its Friendship Responders program.
The program pairs officers with Atlantic Technical College’s Transition Into Employment, or TIE, program. Officers conduct mock job interviews with young adults who face unique challenges, helping them build confidence and prepare to look for work.
Police said the experience also benefits officers. Interactions with students on the autism spectrum can strengthen communication and understanding during real-world encounters, the department said.
Residents can find more information about the department on the city’s website at CoconutCreek.gov/police.
