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Participants in the Citizens Academy get a crash course on defensive tactics.
GreerToday.com File Photo
Citizens Academy participants are taken to the firing range to experience the same techniques police officers learn.
Lt. Jimmy Holcombe began the classes in 2009 with the idea of educating citizens on police policies and introducing citizens to the personnel who work in the departments. An average of 17 per class have graduated and some have become volunteers within the department.
Participants get a crash course on officer survival, traffic enforcement, defensive tactics, victim assistance, and crime scene investigation. Students also ride with on-duty police officers, tour the detention center, and learn control techniques such as the use of Tasers. GPD officers experience a Taser hit as part of their training – a scene the public rarely views. It demonstrates when and how such force is needed.
“The feedback we receive from those who have participated in the Citizens Police Academy is very encouraging,” GPD Training Officer Sgt. Randle Ballenger said. “The sessions touch on nearly every element of policing and are an eye-opening experience for those who may be most familiar with police work from television shows. We frequently hear that class members now have a better appreciation for the work done by our department, especially education programs. Our primary goal is to prevent crime by working proactively with the community.”
Members of the department lead sessions in their area of expertise or assignment, providing an overview of how the Greer Police Department interfaces with the rest of the criminal justice system.
Call 864-848-2156 for more information and click here for application. Written applications may be obtained and submitted to the police department at 102 S. Main Street.