Teen summit gives kids, deputies forum to share

WESLEY CHAPEL (FOX 13) - The conversation was blunt, at times uncomfortable, but critically important. Wesley Chapel High hosted a teen summit Wednesday to build a bridge between youth and Pasco County sheriff's deputies. 

The goal was to encourage a dialog to improve interactions. 

"I think we have a pretty decent relationship with the members of our community. We want to galvanize those relationships and encourage better ones," said Cpl. Bryan Mobley.

Even still, the meeting comes during a time when tensions may be high for some. Two teens were arrested the same day for what they called a prank, but deputies say amounted to written threats to kill. It's one of many recent instances in which the sheriff's office had to become involved. 

During the summit, teens watched body camera videos from real deputy interactions. From there, the auditorium became an open forum.

Issues ranged from discrimination to the so-called no-snitching culture.

The event was hosted by former Pasco high football standout Dee Reed, who battled several ups and downs. He is a minister today and often mentors youth offenders.