Members of the Sumter County Sheriff Office are enrolling Villagers for the next Citizens Academy.
The sheriff office is inviting residents to sign-up for its next ten-session Citizens Academy that begins Sept. 5, and is held on Wednesdays from 1 to 3:30 p.m.
Recently, 35 Villagers, attending the current Academy’s ‘Class Nine,’ heard an informative presentation by Lt. Robert Capps, commander of the Special Weapons and Tactics team.
He described his unit’s demanding requirements for membership; its specialized and strenuous training, and under what scenarios the Team is called upon. Lt. Capps also pointed out some of the features of the custom-made, 55-pound SWAT uniform ‘modeled’ by Deputy Sam Blankenship including ballistic vests, communications gear, medical kit, gas mask, a Glock 34 sidearm, and Colt M-4 rifle.
Later, the Villagers inspected the Team’s Bearcat Emergency Response Vehicle parked outside. The armored vehicle brings up to ten ‘operatives’ to an unfolding and often unsafe scene.
“The Academy offers the educational program, twice a year for Sumter County residents who want a first-hand educational experience about the Sheriff Office’s operations,” said Theresa Cooper, community outreach coordinator.
“Every week, deputies and staff from different components of our operations provide an ‘upfront and personal’ presentation. For example, our ‘dive team’ experts and water patrol officers describe their rescue techniques, while our crime scene investigators showcase their techniques. In addition, detectives explain their vital role, and victim advocates offer tips on how citizens can avoid being scammed.” Theresa continued.
Also, very popular is the extensive tour of the sheriff office’s new facilities in The Villages.
“I always wanted to find out more about police department operations,” said Academy participant Jim Noce, of the Village of St. Charles. “I have been very impressed – especially with the K-9 demonstration and tour of the County jail,”
The Academy is offered as a public service.
“As Sheriff Bill Farmer is quick to point out, the sheriff office is the peoples’ office,” said Lt. Robert Siemer, district supervisor for The Villages. “The Citizens Academy is one way we can demonstrate what we do for them.”
Additional information about the Citizens Academy and to make reservation for the next Academy, call Cooper at (352) 689-4604.
