Youths get inside look at robotic bomb defusing, tactical gear, SWAT as they build trust with police
CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE — For the 10th year, the Ocean City Police Department Youth Camp offered an action-packed week of learning, excitement and hands-on experiences.
The camp, designed to educate and inspire youngsters, provides a rare glimpse into the world of law enforcement, allowing participants to interact with police officers, explore specialized equipment and even experience high-stakes scenarios such as robotic bomb defusing and medical emergencies.
The experience is not a typical summer camp. Over the course of a week, participants are immersed in the thrilling and challenging aspects of police work.
The camp was started by Lt. Pat Randles in 2014 and has been in high demand ever since. Now, Officer Mike Hinsley is in his third year running the event with help from Officer Alexandra Sharp and Officer Jimmy Crowley. They are dedicated to teaching the participants about the responsibilities and rewards of a career in law enforcement.
“It’s a great experience for the kids and shows them what we do on a daily basis. We came out with dogs the other day and showed the kids how bomb-sniffing dogs work. They get to see the robots and drones we have that can look into windows and fly into houses. It’s real ‘Mission Impossible’-type stuff. They love it,” Hinsley said.
One of the camp’s most popular activities is the SWAT demonstration, which was led by OCPD Sgt. Doug Swillo.
Participants got up close and personal with the department’s specialized vehicles and gear. Children got the opportunity to explore a real SWAT van, learning about the advanced technology and equipment used by these elite units.
They even got a chance to suit up in tactical gear, feeling the weight of the vests and helmets that officers wear in the field.
Later in the day, a demonstration of the logistics of snipers in law enforcement was presented, led by Swillo.
Another highlight of the camp is the bomb-defusing robot demonstration, in which campers witness firsthand how law enforcement deals with potentially dangerous situations.
The officers explained the importance of safety protocols and the critical role that technology plays in modern policing. Attendees were given the chance to control the robot, demonstrating the precision required to neutralize threats without putting human lives at risk.
“It’s an awesome experience; the kids really love it,” said Sharp, who was in her third year of helping with the camp. “This year we’ve changed it up some. We show them a bunch of different stuff like the dangers of drunk driving.”
She said they also partnered with the Ocean City Beach Patrol to demonstrate surf rescues on the beach.
The camp is about more than just fun and excitement — it’s about building trust and understanding between the police and the community’s youth. It provides a platform for children to ask questions, express their concerns and see the human side of the officers who serve their community.
By breaking down barriers and fostering open communication, the camp aims to create a new generation of informed and engaged citizens.
The camp also creates friendships, as expressed by Connor Bateman, 12, and Nicky Kalatsjob, 13, who met through the program.
“It’s a really fun camp. I’ve done this three times and have made some good friends here like Nicky,” Connor said. “We love it. We really love the laser tag part; that’s a lot of fun.”
James Kochan shared some of his thoughts on his first time at the event.
“It’s not something I knew a lot about. My sisters and cousins did it and said I should try it,” Kochan said. “My favorite was probably the drunk driving course. They talked about the dangers of drunk driving and then you had to put on these goggles that simulate what it’s like to drive above the legal limit. It was pretty hard.”
Throughout the week, the participants worked closely with the officers, participating in team-building exercises and scenario-based training.
The relationships formed during the camp often extend beyond the week, with many participants staying in touch with their mentors long after the camp has ended.
Such an example is 15-year-old Alan Roehrig, a former camper. Roehrig is a junior volunteer firefighter and now has taken the position of a junior camp counselor to help the younger campers in their exploration of law enforcement.
“Being able to help kids who were in the same situation I was is really fulfilling,” Roehrig said. “It’s good to see the other side of it. When you’re a camper you can just have fun, but now you’re helping create the fun.”
– STORY by EDDIE D’AMICO/For the Sentinel
– PHOTOS by CRAIG D. SCHENCK/Sentinel staff
