By Pat Culverhouse

Webster Parish Sheriff Jason Parker and his command staff gave a group of parish high school students a close-up look at how 15 minutes of partying might lead to a lifetime of regret.

Students participating in the Greater Minden Chamber of Commerce’s Webster Youth Leadership program were put through simulated activities Wednesday showing the dangers of impairment due to drugs or alcohol.

Prior to the simulated program, students toured the Sheriff’s Office and heard Parker outline the duties of his office and the responsibilities faced by deputies.

“My duty as your sheriff, and the duty of all our deputies, is to serve all the citizens of our parish and to ensure their safety,” he told the group. “My greatest pleasure in this office is to be able to serve.”

Parker said he was proud of all the students who were part of the  Chamber’s leadership program.

“I congratulate all of you on your commitment to accept a leadership role in your schools and in your communities,” he said. “We are happy to be a part of helping you make Webster Parish a great place to live, work and raise families.”

During outside activities, Maj. Bobby Igo III placed goggles on the students to simulate the effects of impairment, both when students attempted to walk and while navigating (a golf cart) through an obstacle course.

“We want you to feel the effects so you will understand why it is imperative that you do not operate a vehicle under the influence,” Igo told the students. “Absolutely the worse part of the job of a law enforcement officer is to report a death to a victim’s loved ones.”