The Ashland County Sheriff’s Office recently concluded its 19th Annual Corrections Academy, a rigorous four-week course that sets the standard for professional corrections officers. This academy covers a wide range of topics, from ethics and professionalism to crisis intervention and community diversity. The training program, held in partnership with Richland County, has seen participation from multiple counties and has become a vital step in the career development of corrections officers.
Setting the Standard
The Ashland County Sheriff’s Office Corrections Academy is known for its comprehensive curriculum, with mandatory classes that cover essential aspects of the criminal justice system. Topics such as report writing, inmate rights, and civil liability, and full-service jail standards make up the foundational knowledge for aspiring corrections officers. The academy also delves into the psychological aspects of the job, ensuring that officers are well-prepared for the challenges they may face.
A Collaborative Effort
The success of the Corrections Academy is a result of the collaboration among different counties. Over the years, Ashland, Richland, Huron, Medina, Wayne, Delaware, Lorain, Knox, Holmes, Crawford, Morrow, and Marion counties have all participated in the academy, either by providing instructors or sending officers from their agencies. This collaborative effort highlights the dedication of the law enforcement community in training the next generation of corrections officers.
Exceeding Standards
The Ohio Peace Officers Training Academy (OPOTA) mandates that all corrections officers complete a corrections academy within their first year of employment. The Ashland County Corrections Academy aims to not just meet but exceed the OPOTA's Corrections Basic Training criteria. By providing hands-on training and thorough theoretical instruction, the academy equips officers with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in their roles.
A History of Success
Captain Joseph Perry, who has been the commander of the Corrections Academy since 2014, has witnessed hundreds of corrections officers graduate from the program. These officers have proven to be outstanding assets to their respective agencies, showcasing their motivation, intelligence, and commitment to the safety and security of their colleagues and inmates. The academy's comprehensive approach ensures that officers are well-prepared for the physical and psychological demands of their roles.
Commendation from Sheriffs
Sheriff E. Wayne Risner of the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office expressed his satisfaction with the academy, citing the successful completion of all required course requirements and the development of new friendships among students. Sheriff Steve Sheldon of the Richland County Sheriff’s Office also praised the collaboration between the two agencies, lauding the comprehensive training provided by Sheriff Risner and his team. Captain Ada Franks of the Wayne County Sheriff's Office commended the professionalism and organization of the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office in conducting the academy. These positive testimonials affirm the academy's effectiveness in training corrections officers.
Testimonials from Graduates
Corrections Officer Geoffrey McCarrick of the Lorain County Sheriff’s Office spoke highly of the professionalism, knowledge, and dedication displayed by the instructors at the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office OPOTA classes. He emphasized the academy's role as the foundation for a successful career as a corrections officer. The positive experiences shared by graduates reflect the value and impact of the training provided by the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office.
Celebrating Graduation
The conclusion of the Corrections Academy was marked by a celebratory lunch, where Captain Joseph Perry and Lieutenant Reed showcased their culinary skills by cooking cheeseburgers, chicken, and hot dogs on the Blackstone grill. The event provided a well-deserved moment of camaraderie and appreciation for the achievements of the graduates.
Conclusion
The Ashland County Sheriff’s Office 19th Annual Corrections Academy has once again demonstrated its commitment to training and preparing the next generation of professional corrections officers. With a comprehensive curriculum, collaborative efforts, and positive feedback from both sheriffs and graduates, the academy sets the standard for excellence in corrections training. The dedication and expertise exhibited by the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office serve as a testament to their mission of ensuring the safety and security of officers and inmates alike.
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