The DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office recently took its message about technology, social media and online safety beyond the classroom, speaking separately with parents and teenagers about the risks that can come with an increasingly connected world.
Public Information Officer Mark Pierce first visited Holy Angels in Shreveport, where the discussion was geared toward parents and focused on addressing online dangers with both compassion and firmness.
Parents had an opportunity to ask questions about popular apps and technology, including what different platforms are capable of, potential warning signs and tools available for parental controls and monitoring.
The discussion also emphasized communication and the importance of creating an environment where children and other loved ones feel comfortable turning to a trusted adult when something goes wrong online.
Later in the week, Pierce visited Magnolia Baptist Church in the Hunter Community during a youth lock-in. This time, the conversation was directed at teenagers and designed to be interactive.
Students were encouraged to ask questions about social media apps, technology, online dangers and law enforcement. They also participated in an exercise involving a mock social media post and were challenged to identify how much personal information a stranger might be able to gather from what appeared to be an innocent photo.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, the students actively participated in the exercise and provided feedback throughout the presentation. Stickers, bracelets, cups and other DPSO items were also handed out to students who participated and asked questions.
The Sheriff’s Office thanked Holy Angels CEO Laurie Boswell, Senior Director of Family Engagement June Bennett and Senior Director of Operations and Compliance Tammy Kennedy for hosting the presentation. The department also thanked Pastor Amador Santos, Beth Lynch and Becky Atkins at Magnolia Baptist Church for inviting Pierce to speak with the church’s youth.
Officials said the presentations are part of an effort to provide both adults and young people with practical knowledge as technology and social media continue to evolve.
“Whether we’re talking with parents or sitting down with teenagers, these conversations matter,” the Sheriff’s Office stated. “One of the best tools we can provide is knowledge — and an opportunity to ask questions without fear of judgment.”
Schools, churches, organizations and community groups interested in hosting a similar presentation can contact the DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office to arrange a date and time.