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June 12, 2003 - News Release
First Grand Lake Law Enforcement Academy Class Recognized
L-R, Row 1: Mark D. Buffenbarger, Wapakoneta; Robert E. Bennett, Antwerp. Row 2: Joseph L. Kouts, Celina; April A. Evers, St. Henry. Row 3: Michael J. Link, Ft. Recovery; Jared L. Laux, Ft. Recovery; Deric W. Kroft, Celina. Row 4: Charles N. Putman, Rockford; Brook L. Prasuhn, Burkettsville; Daniel D. Osborne, Celina; Peter L. Mustard, Celina. Row 5: Gary J. Thieman, St. Henry; Rachel L. Sullivan, St. Marys; Kyle A. Strohl, Celina; Christopher C. Smelser, Celina; Douglas A. Rindler, St. Henry. Row 6: Benjamin M. Younker, Celina; Clayton A. Williams, Celina. |
A recent reception was held to honor the first Grand Lake Law Enforcement Academy class to complete its coursework at the Lake Campus of Wright State University. The students were presented with certificates recognizing successful completion of the program. The coursework, taught by present police officers or retired officers, is in compliance with the standards set forth by the State of Ohio through the Ohio Peace Officers Training Commission (OPOTC).
Addressing the class, Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey said, “While it is an honor to be a law enforcement officer, it is also a privilege that carries more responsibility than you can yet imagine. The public will place an enormous amount of trust in you. They will trust you with their children, they will trust your advice, and they will count on you when they need your help. Always remember, law enforcement is about what you can do to help people who are trusting you to use your authority wisely. Education in the law enforcement arena is a never-ending process. This is not the end of your training; it is only the beginning. Be proud of your accomplishment, be proud of your uniform, and be proud of the agency and community you serve. I know I am going to be proud of you in the future.”
Academy Commander and Mercer County Sheriff’s Deputy Kip Wright stressed the importance of good communication and listening skills for law enforcement officers. He also stressed the importance of community involvement. “Though your job is very important, don’t be married to it. Maintain family involvement and community involvement. Get to know the pulse of your communities by getting involved in community activities. Be good citizens and good role models to youngsters.”
Wright added, “You are an exceptional class. You are all exceptional individuals. You congealed so well and displayed exceptional teamwork. Thank you for the time, laughter, joy, and learning we have shared this past nine months and through the 600 hours of training. And thanks to your families for sharing you with us for all this time.”
After their successful completion of this program, students are now required to take and pass state certification testing. “I am very proud to be able to present the class members’ names to take the state board certification test,” Wright concluded.
A second class will begin September 8, 2003. Classes meet Monday through Thursday evenings with three to six 8-hour Saturday classes. Deadline for registration is Tuesday, July 1.
For more information contact Academy Commander and Mercer County Sheriff’s Detective Kip Wright at the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office, (419) 586-2407 (H) or (419) 586-7724 (W).
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