The Petersburg Sheriff’s Office proudly graduated 50 students from the D.A.R.E. Academy held at Lakemont Elementary School on Friday, May 15, 2026. The D.A.R.E. program is led by Sergeant DeCarla Evans, Petersburg Sheriff’s Office D.A.R.E. Officer, who works closely with students throughout the academy to promote positive decision-making, leadership, responsibility, and drug prevention education. The D.A.R.E. Academy provides students with valuable life skills designed to help them make safe and responsible choices both in school and within the community.
The graduation speaker was Corporal Chey Keller with his K-9 Zita. He shared his insights on how important good decision making is and how important, as students, it is for them to step up and be leaders.
“Programs like D.A.R.E. play an important role in guiding and empowering our youth,” said Vanessa R. Crawford. “We are proud of Sgt. Evans and her continued dedication to mentoring students and building positive relationships with young people throughout our community.”
The Petersburg Sheriff’s Office remains committed to youth engagement initiatives that strengthen partnerships between law enforcement, schools, and families.
