Congressman Mike Lawler honored two Spring Valley police officers this morning in Albany. 

The two officers, Detective Sergeant Rony Charles and Officer Andre Riobe, recently graduated a class of 72 Spring Valley residents from their Youth and Police Initiative Program. The program, which started in 2008, has helped to guide thousands of locals, ages 9-18, to form long-term relationships with local law enforcement while working to inspire participants to make positive choices.

"Detective Sergeant Rony Charles is an incredibly active member of the Spring Valley Community," Congressman Mike Lawler said during this morning's ceremony honoring the two Spring Valley police officers. "With over decades of law enforcement experience, Rony has served with distinction. In addition to his service, he has also bridged gaps between the police and the community through initiatives like the Spring Valley Youth & Police Initiative. His role in "Operation Clean Sweep" and his leadership in enhancing the safety and cohesion of Rockland County exemplify a commitment to justice and safety.

"Officer Andre Riobe's service in law enforcement and the military, combined with his volunteer work with the Spring Valley Youth Police Initiative, exemplifies a life dedicated to protection, service, and mentorship. Serving 12 years in the Air Force, followed by 12 years at the Metropolitan Police Department in DC, before ending up at the Spring Valley Police Department shows his courage, commitment, and desire to protect our community at large. Andre has also had a profound impact on the Spring Valley Youth and Police Initiative, which has made a lasting change in the lives of many children from Spring Valley."

The Spring Valley Police Department Youth and Police Initiative is recognized as the best Youth Police Initiative Program in the nation and serves as a respected model of success, with members coming back years later to mentor youths ages 9-18 in the program that helped them to become exemplary community members. 

Participants are mentored by the officers who become like family to them, getting close not only to the youths but to their families as well. 

"Once kids are in, they're in for life," Detective Sergeant Rony Charles tells Rockland Daily. "Our waiting list is astronomical. 

The program, which is funded completely through grants, helps inspire participants in a number of ways, including a financial incentive of $80 given to those who complete the program and exciting trips to major concerts, sports events, Disney World, and a camp in the summer. 

Additionally, the program includes ongoing inspiration from visiting community leaders such as Congressman Mike Lawler, Spring Valley Chief Police Richard Oleszczuk, District Attorney Tom Walsh, the sheriff's department crime scene team, the sheriff's bloodhound, a supreme court judge, and more. 

"It's tons of pizza and soda," Charles shares. "We break barriers, and they learn to understand that police officers have feelings, and the police officers learn to understand the kids and build a relationship. They are like my sons."