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'Magical' Cop Tells Kids: Don't Do Drugs
Drug abuse can start at a very young age. That’s why police say it's critical to teach children about the dangers of drugs as soon as possible. One Fayetteville police officer has found a magic formula to spread the message.
Posted — UpdatedFAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — Drug abuse can start at a very tender age – sometimes as early as elementary school.
That’s why police say it's critical to teach children about the dangers of drugs as soon as possible. One Fayetteville police officer has found a magic formula to spread the message.
After working a 12-hour shift behind a badge and bulletproof vest, Officer Frank Davis’ work day wasn’t over yet.
“I write speeding tickets. I go to cats in trees and house fires,” he said.
So often, Davis sees the tough side of his community. But now, he performs magic shows a few times a month to educate children about the dangers of drugs. His program, the “Magical, Say NO Show,” is provided free for local schools and community organizations
“They’re always engaged. They ask questions,” he said. “They’re not jaded at this age. Most of the time, I perform for kindergarten, first and second grade, and it’s one of their first exposures to a drug awareness program.”
Davis is a patrol officer who works the night shift, from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. He was a full-time magician but wanted to do something more with his life. So, he became a police officer.
“I wanted to do something where I help my community. I get to be involved and out there,” he said.
Davis keeps his anti-drug message simple so when the young students leave his show, they’re not bogged down with a bunch of statistics.
He performs at elementary schools and recreation centers. He says his magic show is usually the first drug awareness program his audiences have ever seen.
“I learned that if you take a cigarette, because it’s full of tobacco, you’ll lose 14 minutes of your life,” said Courtney Nunnery, 9. “And never take drugs. You’ll be one of those people.”
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