Border Patrol agent demonsrates capabilities of highly-trained canine.
BUFFALO, N.Y. - Residents from the Western New York area joined the U.S. Border Patrol's Citizens Academy this summer, attending six weekly sessions to get an appreciation for the agency's methods and procedures. Beginning in July, sessions were held at the Buffalo Border Patrol's Sector headquarters in Grand Island, N.Y., covering a range of topics such as use-of-force principles, suspicious activity indicators, tracking techniques, firearms safety procedures, and more.
This was the first Citizens Academy that was held at Buffalo Sector combining agents and assets from the Niagara Falls and Buffalo Stations, as well as residents from both areas.
The 32 attendees came from a broad cross-section of the community, including nurses, business executives, retirees, and government employees. "It was exciting to learn about the duties of a Border Patrol agent," said Lori Adams, an associate broker from the Buffalo area.
Western New York residents pose for photo after recently completing Border Patrol Citizens Academy.
"We learned that when something doesn't look right in our neighborhoods, we can call the Border Patrol for quick follow up," said Amy Neveaux, director of the Special Olympics.
“We hold these academies twice a year. It is an excellent opportunity for us to interact and get to know the individuals and communities we patrol. The program is a continuing success,” said Border Patrol agent Dean Mandel.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection welcomes assistance from the community. Citizens can report suspicious activity to the Border Patrol while remaining anonymous by calling 1-800-331-0353 toll free.