The inaugural Hamilton County Sheriff’s Citizens Academy is underway.
The creation of the academy is part of Sheriff Austin Garrett’s efforts to provide more transparency to the community and give local residents the opportunity to learn more about how the agency works.
The first Sheriff’s Citizens Academy is composed of nine local leaders representing a diverse group of community organizations, churches, businesses and public service agencies.
Throughout the 40-hour academy, attendees will learn about aspects of the agency’s history and operations, including its patrol, school resource deputy, narcotics and investigative services.
Participants will also take part in training exercises covering active shooter responses, vehicle stops, weapon drills, building clearing tactics and self-defense.
In addition, attendees will learn about the HCSO’s peer support and employee health and wellness programs and tour facilities related to the safety and security of Hamilton County.
“The academy will help reinforce our ability to foster meaningful relationships with the citizens we’re proud to serve,” says Garrett.
The participants in the inaugural Sheriff’s Citizens Academy include:
• Freddie Brooks, retired Chattanooga firefighter, Executive director, International Association of Black Professional Firefighters
• James Howard, host, Sunny 92.3 WDEF Radio, Host, WTVC’s “This ‘N That”
• Sterling Jetton, pastor, Shelter Church in East Brainerd
• Stacy Johnson, executive director, La Paz Chattanooga
• Candy Johnson, president, CEO, Urban League of Greater Chattanooga
• Kelvin Scott, host, 93.5 FM’s “In Touch with the Community Show,” Administrative assistant
• Bishop Kevin Adams, Olivet Baptist Church
• Robert Sharpe, chief operating officer, Hamilton County Department of Education
• Dr. Jeffrey Wilson, pastor, New United Missionary Baptist Church, former Hamilton County school board member
• Lacy Word, transportation manager II, Tennessee Department of Transportation
Source: Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office