UPDATE: MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - The Safe Prom Initiative is held every April during prom season. This year marks the tenth anniversary since Michigan State Detective First Lieutenant Timothy Gill implemented the initiative. The event held at Grand Ledge high school brought police officers from all over the tri-county area, including those from Meridian Township.

Lieutenant Gill hosted the event that was designed to encourage high schoolers to make good decisions during prom. The dance is a significant milestone for some students and can sometimes lead to under age alcohol use and drunk driving.

"Well obviously when they're out involved in prom activities if they're drinking alcohol they run additional risk of injury to themselves, their classmates or friends in the car, as well as citizens at large by driving around and that's the kind of thing we want to avoid,” says D/F/L Gill. “We want to help them make those good choices, encourage them to do so and hopefully they can enjoy a real safe and memorable prom."

The assembly of juniors and seniors at Grand Ledge high school heard testimonials from police who have had to enforce the law in the past. Grand Ledge high school Principal Steven Gabriel says that luckily they have not had any incidents in his time there but the risks still exist.

“I think there is always that temptation out there and therefore I think it's important for kids to get the message,” Gabriel says. “I think the more we educate them and let them know about the dangers that come along with drinking and driving, especially around prom time, I think the more likely we are to avoid those problems."


ORIGINAL STORY: MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - Local police hold the 10th Annual Safe Prom Initiative for an alcohol free prom at Grand Ledge high school.