Searching and tasering at Police Academy

BY JOHN L. GUERRA

NEWS WRITER

 

Have you ever wanted to learn the art of searching a building for an armed suspect? Ever wonder what it would be like to Taser someone?

If you have Wednesday nights free in May, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office would like you to sign up for its Citizen’s Police Academy, designed to give the public a glimpse into the training and action deputies undergo as they serve the community.

But you won’t actually be allowed to Taser anyone. The “Introduction to Weapons: Simunation and Taser” class is a look at the way deputies train in the use of their weapons. Simunation is a brand name for practice bullets that are akin to paint balls.

“We are still looking for people who are interested in learning more about law enforcement and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office,” spokeswoman Sheriff’s Deputy Becky Herrin said.

Classes, to be held at the sheriff’s aviation hangar at Marathon Airport, begin May 7 and wrap up the week of June 27, when participants will graduate from the program.

“Attendees will be asked to commit to spending every Wednesday night between the hours of 6 to 9 p.m.,” Herrin said. “They will also be asked to participate in at least one ride-along with a deputy.”

Sheriff Rick Ramsay, who has instituted community outreach as a key foundation of his term, believes a public that gets to know his deputies will aid their efforts to control crime in their neighborhoods. He requires deputies to hold neighborhood trash cleanup sessions within their territories and deputies are required to paint over graffiti within 24 hours of spotting it.

“If you have always wanted to know more about law enforcement this is a terrific opportunity,” Ramsay said. “We don’t just stand in a classroom and lecture; you will have the opportunity to have a hands-on law enforcement experience if you attend one of these academies.”

Hmmm … maybe he will let you Taser someone after all.http://konknet.com/konk-life/contributors/john-guerra

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