- School Visitation
- Mentoring "Let’s Talk" Program
- Lake County Clergy Council
- Gun Lock Safety Program
- Careful Carter
School Visitation
Lake County Prosecutor Bernard A. Carter is deeply committed to engaging with the youth of Lake County by regularly visiting local schools to speak with students about the power of their choices and the importance of planning for a positive future. Through open dialogue and encouragement, Prosecutor Carter reminds students that their actions today shape the opportunities of tomorrow. His personal motto, "What have you done today, to make tomorrow better?", serves as both a challenge and an inspiration—urging young people to take responsibility, dream big, and make meaningful decisions that lead to success.
If your school is interested in a visit from Prosecutor Carter, contact Myrna Maldonado, Public Information Officer at mmaldonado@lakepros.org 219-755-3720 Ext. #324
Mentoring "Let’s Talk" Program
The Lake County Prosecutor’s Office has launched a new initiative aimed at supporting vulnerable middle school boys by providing them with the tools, guidance, and mentorship they need to make positive life choices and avoid the pitfalls that can lead to criminal behavior. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by this group, our program is designed to empower these students to take control of their futures, understand the consequences of their actions, and make decisions that will lead to successful, fulfilling lives.
If your school is interested in this program, contact Myrna Maldonado, Public Information Officer at mmaldonado@lakepros.org 219-755-3720 Ext. #324
Lake County Clergy Council
Under the wing of the Lake County Prosecutor’s Office, the Clergy Council, is comprised of many members of the clergy representing various religions in Lake County. Clergy volunteer their time to have an opportunity to learn about the criminal justice system and other topics that affect our community. We believe that clergy members are leaders in our community and play a critical role in the lives of the people they serve. "It is for that reason that we feel strongly that by informing our clergy we can continue to bridge the gap of understanding between community and prosecutors, as well as law enforcement," Prosecutor Bernard A. Carter.For more information, please contact Lake County Prosecutor’s Office Public Information Officer Myrna Maldonado at mmaldonado@lakepros.org for more information.
Gun Lock Safety Program
The Lake County Prosecutor’s Office’s Gun Safety Lock Initiative is important, as the incidents of accidental shootings continue to increase in our county. "It has become evident that education on gun safety and the distribution of free gun safety locks to the community is of utmost importance," said Carter. "The distribution of gun safety locks will include working with our Lake County Prosecutor’s Clergy Council to distribute safety locks at church services and events," said Carter. In addition to the safety locks, recipients will also receive 3 videos via YouTube link.The Clergy Council is comprised of many members of the clergy representing various religions in Lake County, who volunteer their time to have an opportunity to learn more about criminal justice topics that affect our community. It is for that reason that we feel strongly that by distributing our gun safety locks through our churches, we can successfully reach our community. Myrna Maldonado, Public Information Officer for the Lake County Prosecutor’s Office at mmaldonado@lakepros.org.
Careful Carter
Careful Carter is a gun safety literacy program created by the Lake County Prosecutor’s Office to educate children in grades K–5 on what to do if they encounter a gun. Launched as a pilot program in 2025 in partnership with the School City of East Chicago, Careful Carter uses age-appropriate lessons, realistic scenarios, and engaging materials to teach children how to stay safe through the S.A.F.E. method: Stop, Avoid Touching, Find an Adult, Exit the Area. After a successful launch, the program is now available to all schools across Lake County. For more information or to bring Careful Carter to your school, contact Myrna Maldonado, Public Information Officer, at mmaldonado@lakepros.org or call 219-755-3720.
