Residents should sign up for Citizens Law Enforcement Academy

Editor:

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Columbia County offers free, to each of us over 18, the opportunity to obtain an understanding of our sheriff's deputies' jobs. I've had the honor and great pleasure of partaking in the Columbia County Citizens Law Enforcement Academy, and acquired great respect and appreciation for these men and women.

Did you know the officers in the patrol cars don't just write tickets and answer accident calls? They are cross-trained in robbery, theft, SWAT, mediation, K-9 and more. Many of the 911 Center officers are bi-lingual. Crime scene investigators work harder than what you see in 60 minutes of TV. SWAT team members carry 70-plus pounds of equipment on themselves.

The Justice Center courts are in place to protect children, people of all ages with mental handicaps and a lot more. You'll learn gun safety and practice at the range and get self-defense instruction, too.

This information just touches on the topics conveyed once a week, 2 1/2 hours each week for 10 weeks.

Next class should be in the spring; think about it and participate. This academy is one of the best gifts you can give yourself.

Chris Slate

Grovetown