Local high school students got a behind-the-scenes look at the county’s criminal justice system Wednesday as part of the Orange County District Attorney’s 17th annual Summer Youth Education Conference.

The weeklong program gives students interested in a career in law enforcement a taste of what it’s like to be an attorney, police officer and judge.

With educational workshops, the students are walked through the criminal system from the arrest and booking process to the courtroom, said Jose Morfin, a staff specialist with the District Attorney’s Office.

“The kids walk out of here with a better understanding of the criminal justice system than most adults,” Morfin said.

This year’s program had 27 students from 21 high schools. Applicants were required to send an essay explaining their interest in the criminal justice system.

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