Praise deputies

Editor, The Commercial:

Congratulations to Deputies Zachary Sturdivant, Kirsten Garner, and James Smith. Today (April 4) marks a significant milestone as these dedicated individuals graduate from Arkansas’ 13-week Basic Law Enforcement Training at the Arkansas Law Enforcement Training Academy (ALETA) in Camden, Ark.

The Arkansas Basic Police Training Course is not just a routine training program; it’s a rigorous curriculum mandated by state laws and guided by various rules, regulations, and administrative procedures.

Over the course of 13 weeks, encompassing 538 hours, our graduates have undergone intensive instruction and practical application in a multitude of essential areas within law enforcement.

From criminal investigation to accident investigation, firearms training to defensive tactics, and from understanding traffic and criminal law to ensuring officer safety and minimizing civil liability, this comprehensive training equips our deputies with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the complexities of their roles in protecting and serving our community.

Moreover, the training emphasizes crucial aspects such as crime prevention, crisis intervention, and fostering cultural diversity awareness, recognizing the diverse fabric of our society and the importance of equitable law enforcement practices.

As they step into their roles as deputies, we commend Deputies Sturdivant, Garner, and Smith for their commitment to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and integrity. They are poised to make significant contributions to our law enforcement community here in Jefferson County, Ark., ensuring the safety and well-being of our residents.

Please join me in congratulating these deputies on their achievement and welcoming them as they embark on their promising careers in law enforcement!

SHERIFF LAFAYETTE WOODS JR., JEFFERSON COUNTY