Residents of Bradley County who want to increase their knowledge of the Bradley County Sheriff's Office while they develop a better understanding of law enforcement are encouraged to apply for the first Citizen's Academy class that is now forming for January, 2009.

Sheriff Tim Gobble developed the academy as an educational program for citizens of all backgrounds and occupations who have an interest in gaining insight into the many functions of county law enforcement and the challenges we will face in the future. It is another way the BCSO is partnering with the community to foster citizen awareness of law enforcement's role providing for the public safety needs of all citizens.

Enrollment in Class One of the Sheriff's Citizens Academy is limited to the first 25 qualified applicants and space is still available.

Anyone who would like to attend should complete an application and return it to the sheriff's office. You can get the application packet by stopping by the sheriff's administrative offices at the Judicial Complex or you can download one from the sheriff's web site, www.bradleysheriff.com, by clicking on the "documents" tab. Applications must be returned by Dec. 1, 2008.

Classes are scheduled to begin on Jan. 20, 2009. Weekly meetings will follow on successive Tuesday evenings from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. through March 20. There is no charge for this training.

Criminal history checks will be done on all applicants before they are accepted.

At each of ten weekly meetings, BCSO personnel will provide classroom and "hands-on" instruction centered on a different aspect of the sheriff's office.

At the first session Sheriff Gobble will introduce his command structure and the captains of his five divisions who will explain the role each has in the organization. Members of the class will also have the opportunity to get better acquainted with their classmates.

Topics covered in future weeks are:
· Jan. 27 – Patrol functions and the 9-1-1 Communications Center.
· Feb. 3 – School-based policing, Training, Professional Development and Support Services.
· Feb. 10 – SWAT (Special Weapons and Tactical).
· Feb. 17 - Criminal Investigations Division
· Feb. 24 – Corrections Division
· March 3 – Use of Force
· March 10 – Firearms Safety
· March 17 – Criminal Law and Domestic Violence
· March 24 – Graduation

Some topics that will be covered are daily patrol operations and procedures; purpose and benefits of the DARE program; crime scene investigations; domestic violence issues; the budget process; firearms, and landmark court cases. Additionally, tours of the Judicial Complex and the 9-1-1 center are planned.

Classes will be interactive to allow participants an opportunity to ask questions.

"A person who takes great interest and pride in their community and has a desire to learn more about how county government provides public safety should gain a vast amount of new knowledge through the Citizens Academy," said Sheriff Gobble. "I look forward to meeting everyone who signs up."

If you would like further information, contact either Lt. Eddie Scoggins at 423 728-7330, or Sgt. Gwen Beavers 423 728-7319.