Dozens of local Girl Scouts got a chance to learn about the dangers of drugs and alcohol and learn how to collect fingerprints from objects in an effort to earn a badge.
The Pearl River County Sheriff’s Department held the event at the Henleyfield Community Center on Saturday at the request of the Pearl River County Girl Scouts Service Unit.
Lt. Joe Quave said the event was a way to help the girls earn a badge that involved having their fingerprints taken and learn how to collect fingerprints from a plastic cup.
The girls also got a chance to see some of the department’s tactical equipment, such as a door ram and riot shield.

During the presentation the girls were also shown a video about the dangers of alcohol, examples of drug paraphernalia and the dangers associated with the use of illegal narcotics. The K-9 demonstration involved a mock search and seizure and mock apprehension of a suspect.
“We appreciate them letting us be a part of what they do,” Quave said.
Rebecca Taylor, who is the PRC Service Unit manager, said girls from 9 county troops showed up for the event as part of a safety and awareness program. At the conclusion of the event each Girl Scout received an investigation and safety badge. The participants were in the Daisy, Brownie, Junior and Cadet age ranges.
Taylor said the scouts are looking for service projects within the community.
“We got willing girls who will jump in there and work,” Taylor said.
Anyone with a service project the Girl Scouts can help with can reach Taylor by email at girlscouts629@hotmail.com.
Taylor said she and all of the girls appreciated the members of the sheriff’s department helping them earn their badge.