Lowell Police Department Expanding Lowell Police Youth Services with Addition of Officer Emmanuel Antonetty

LOWELL — Acting Lowell Police Superintendent Barry Golner is pleased to report that the Lowell Police Youth Services Program (LPYS) is expanding, adding Officer Emmanuel Antonetty as a dedicated officer working with the program.

Meanwhile, LPYS has met with the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Lowell, and intends to begin sending officers to the club to interact with and mentor hundreds of students who participate in programming there.

Officer Antonetty grew up in foster care in Lowell and for years as a teenager hated school and would spend time with gang members out on the street. It wasn’t until Antonetty began going to Ramalho’s West End Gym that he found a refuge, positive influences, and place to focus on improving his lifestyle. 

Joining the gym and meeting mentors was a lifechanging event for Antonetty, who now wants to help other young people find the kind of focus and caring adults that changed his life. 

“I grew up angry and mad at the world. I grew up getting in trouble, but besides that I had many positive role models who made all the efforts to help me out,” said Antonetty, who added that the help made a difference. “I want the youth in the City of Lowell and surrounding area to know: It does not matter what background you have, I want to be able to help out in any way and make sure everyone succeeds and pursues whatever dream they chase. As a police officer in Lowell Police Youth Services, I believe I can accomplish exactly that.”

Officer Antonetty has served with Lowell Police for five years. He boxed in the Golden Gloves. He is working toward a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Anna Maria College, where he is also taking a class in sign language to help him communicate with those with hearing challenges. 

Antonetty is also deeply interested in computers and art, and wants to use his interest in those subjects to connect with youth over more than just sports. 

“We’re looking for the right people to be able to fit in and have a connection with the kids,” said Acting Superintendent Golner. “This isn’t only about sports. Not all youth will connect with police through sports. Manny has a myriad of talents and interests and a great personality that enables him to connect with almost anyone.”

One of Officer Antonetty’s duties will be stopping by the Boys & Girls Club on occasion to interact with students, build relationships, and provide a positive role model.

Lowell Police leaders are hoping to expand their relationship with the Boys & Girls Club over the coming months. 

“We are very proud of Lowell Police Youth Services and excited to announce this expansion. LPYS is one of the most modern and beneficial initiatives that we have ever undertaken here at Lowell PD,” said Acting Superintendent Golner. “These programs have reached city youth from every neighborhood and section of the city. Every class and program that we offer is free, and parents and guardians can rest assured that the coaches, volunteers, mentors and assistants have all been thoroughly vetted to ensure they will create a healthy, safe and fun environment for children.”

About the Lowell Police Youth Services Program

The Lowell Police Youth Services Program seeks to create opportunities for all city youth to participate in free after-school activities, athletics, and other ventures that emphasize health and wellness, while also experiencing positive interactions with police officers. The Lowell Police Youth Services Program is open to partnering with all community stakeholders.

For more information on the Lowell Police Youth Services Program, visit https://lowellpolice.org/youth-services/ or email: LPDYouthServices@lowellma.gov. To make a donation to the Lowell Police Youth Services Program via the Greater Lowell Community Foundation, click here. To follow the Lowell Police Youth Services Program on Instagram, click here.