13. Tech, Substances, the Law, and Our Kids: Q&A with Corporal Brian Gathercole, Upper Uwchlan Police Dep

Ever want to know what is happening in your community from the viewpoint of a police officer? During our conversation with Corporal Brian Gathercole from the Upper Uwchlan Police Department we did just that! Corp. Gathercole has over 20 years of experience working in Chester County, and 16 years specifically in Upper Uwchlan Township. He (and UUPD) is a community partner offering programs for parents and youth in community and school settings on topics including internet safety and drug and alcohol prevention, and he also created and coordinates a Junior Police Academy. Chrissie and Bethann ask about what substances Corp. Gathercole is seeing youth use in our community and how they are using them. Our conversation went on to include: how youth use social media and the “secret” text language for buying and selling substances, the game Fortnite and how kids prank oher kids (even from out of state) but how it involves the police, the consequences of underage drinking and drug use for both kids and adults, the ways youth use ride share apps, and mental health. Corp. Gathercole also provides tools parents can share with their kids to get help if they need it (including, hopefully, calling you first). We discuss how honesty and trust are so important and have to be the foundation of our connection and communication with our kids. Chrissie and Bethann did not anticipate all that they would learn during this conversation! Join us!

 

Things we mentioned during our conversation:

 

Brian explained people can now Text 911 (in addition to calling 911) to get help–a great, anonymous tool for youth to use if they are concerned about a friend or feel they need help. Click here for more information. 

 

Brian mentioned DASD’s Safe2Say Something program.

 

We talked about different scenarios and legal consequences for underage drinking and also serving alcohol to minors. 

 

Upper Uwchlan Township Police Department provides police services to the community 24 hours a day, seven days a week by responding to a variety of incidents throughout the year. The mission of the Upper Uwchlan Township Police Department is to work in a true partnership with our fellow citizens to enhance the quality of life in our community. By raising the level of public safety through law enforcement, we aim to reduce the fear and incidence of crime. In accomplishing these goals, service will be our commitment, and honor and integrity will be our mandate. Follow Upper Uwchlan Twp. PD on Facebook  and Twitter. 

 

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Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE.