KYLA students recently toured offices of the local legal system. In front, from left, are Kylie Mason (Triton) and Lillie Berger (Triton). In back are KYLA Advisor Tony Ciriello, Kosciusko Country Sheriff’s Department Captain Aaron Rovenstine, Grant Strichter (Triton), Caleb Klusman (WCHS), Brandon Eckert (WCHS) and Warsaw Police Department Chief Scott Whitaker. (Photo provided)

Kosciusko Youth Leadership Academy held the March 5 meeting at the Kosciusko County Courthouse. Circuit Court Judge Mike Reed, prosecutor Dan Hampton, Warsaw Police Chief Scott Whitaker and Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Department Captain Aaron Rovenstine presented various aspects of the legal system in Warsaw and Kosciusko County.

Judge Reed shared an overview of how the four separate courts are established and how they operate, including types of cases handled in each. Prosecutor Dan Hampton provided an synopsis of the role of a prosecutor, number of felony and misdemeanor cases were filed in 2013 and then touched on the child support division of his office.

Captain Rovenstine talked about the Kosciusko County Jail, how the sheriff’s department responsibilities while similar are different than other law enforcement agencies. Chief Whitaker discussed law enforcement in general and the make up of the Warsaw Police Department.

Following the presentations, the students took an underground tunnel to the county jail and the local 911 center. KCSD Sgt. Chad Hill gave students an inside look at the various cells, law enforcement equipment and discussed tactics used during intake.

Tony Cirello closed the meeting by announcing the Project Proud meeting will be held at Kosciusko REMC on April 16. For more information about KYLA, visit kylaleadership.org.