Miranda police station opened its doors to a select few people on Wednesday as part of the first community awareness in policing program (CAPP).
The program gives participants the opportunity to experience various aspects of police work and meet officers from the highway patrol, dog unit, marine command and riot and public order unit.
Leader police reporter Kahlia Beichert was invited alongside Member for Cronulla Mark Speakman, Member for Miranda Eleni Petinos, Sutherland Mayor Carmelo Pesce and Cronulla Chamber of Commerce Chair Mark Aprilovic among other community representatives.
The day began with a welcome speech from Miranda commander Superintendent Michael O’Toole before general duties officers showed the weapons they carry on their belt and the bulletproof vest they wear.
Participants were then taken into the charge room where prisoners are first brought in as well as the dock where prisoners wait.
Visitors then had the chance to try out the the computerised fingerprint system and have their photo taken.
It was then into the padded interview room where a camera films the entire room when prisoners are interviewed.
Chief Inspector Mark Magrath then showed off some of the weapons they had seized recently including guns, knives, knuckledusters and a torch which when unscrewed revealed dangerous spikes.
A presentation was then made by Forensic Services Group officers who showed how they collect fingerprints and DNA off paper, cans and clothing.
Detective Sergeant Kelly Donaghy explained how detectives can use that information during a criminal investigation.
Participants were then treated to a demonstration by officers from the Marine Command, Dog Unit and Highway Patrol.
After lunch participants had the chance to re-enact a scenario that most general duties officers are faced with; responding to reports of domestic violence.
Carmelo Pesce and Mark Aprilovic were tasked as the first responders while Eleni Petinos and Mark Speakman were the backup team.
The last item of the day was a demonstration by the public order and riot squad.
Participants had the chance to don the full gear including bulletproof vest, leg guards, helmet, baton and shield.
They tested their skills, using the shields to ward off a steam of bottles, containers and boxes.
The day ended with a presentation of certificates.
