Youth Leadership Harlingen Experiences a Day in the Government and Criminal Justice System

HARLINGEN, Texas – Government and Criminal Justice was the topic of the Youth Leadership session. Youth Leadership Harlingen Students made visits to Harlingen City Hall, the Harlingen Area Chamber of Commerce for a court mock trial and to the police station on Monday, November 10, 2014.

Students started the day with morning conversations with City Commissioners, Victor Leal, Michael Mezmar and Tudor Uhlhorn. Topics of the morning included transportation, environment, recreation and entertainment.

“It was a pleasure visiting with such bright students,” said Michael Mezmar, “The group of teenagers were interested in our particular roles in city government.”

Students were introduced to the City’s Comprehensive Plan which covers everything from street improvements, parks, water, police force, economy growth, retail, etc. The City Commissioners held an open discussion about city ordinances and what a City Commissioner’s role is.

Students traveled back to the Harlingen Area Chamber of Commerce where they participated in a murder case mock trial led by Mark and Abigail Molina of Molina Law Group, PLLC. Students were active in the process where some served as part of the jury, the defense, the prosecution and as witnesses.

Students wrapped up the day with a visit and tour of the Harlingen Police Station. The Harlingen Police Department’s Gang Investigation Unit also led a presentation on gang violence.

The next session will be on January 26, 2015 and will cover business and the industry.

Youth Leadership Harlingen was established in 1994 and was produced by the Harlingen Area Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the Harlingen Consolidated Independent School District for students enrolled in secondary schools within surrounding school districts.