Greater Naples Leadership Class XVII listened to many aspects of the judicial and law enforcement systems in Collier County during Law Day on March 13. The Honorable Elizabeth Krier and Honorable Cynthia Pivacek presented an overview of civil, criminal and juvenile justice. Volunteer opportunities for helping children in the court system were highlighted by Donna Kordek, volunteer recruiter for the Guardian ad Litem program. (There will be more on the GAL program in the Community Services section of this month’s Connections.) Alicia Guerra, Chief Legal Counsel for the statewide office, answered the technical questions.
The class heard all bout the devastating “pill mill” industry in Southwest Florida by Naples Police Chief Tom Weschler and learned about identity theft from expert Samantha Feuer, South Florida Bureau Chief, Assistant Attorney General in charge of Consumer Protection.
In the afternoon, the class was sent to jail where they were treated to a tasty jailhouse lunch and a tour of the facility by Commander Kevin McGowan. After a short pizza break, Sheriff Kevin Rambosk, Collier County Sheriff, gave an overview of immigration, crime and other issues in the area. The class then enjoyed a beautiful Naples afternoon while Sergeant Fletch Fuller of the Sheriff’s Office gave demonstrations on self-defense, the use of police dogs and TASERs. After leaving jail, the class enjoyed refreshments together at Roy’s Restaurant.
Barb Everist