Local teenager attends and completes FBI Teen Academy

Joshua “JD” Serafin, of Rio Communities, son of Mercy A. Serafin and grandson of Henry and Maria Serafin, was selected in June by the FBI Outreach Program to join the FBI Teen Academy in Albuquerque.

Serafin, 16, a student at NM Connections Academy, was the sole representative from Valencia County and one of only 29 teenagers chosen statewide from hundreds of applicants. His acceptance required a detailed essay on one of two topics without the use of AI tools, a high GPA, demonstrated leadership skills and a clean background check.

Serafin successfully completed the program and graduated on July 19, receiving a certificate for his successful achievements.

The training involved participating in mock cases covering areas such as cyber crimes, violent crimes against children, violent gangs, transnational organized crimes and evidence response.

Serafin also took part in SWAT/special agent fitness tests, excelling by completing the most push-ups and one of the quickest times in a 120-pound dummy carry exercise and second place in the most sit ups.

“I am grateful for this experience and will try again next year,” Serafin said about the experience. “I will keep all my options open for the future.”