In the Community August 2016 | Page 25

During the first week of BCSOT, cadets are taught the laws, safety, and techniques needed to become proficient in the use of firearms. The course consists of drills, individual instruction, and a qualifying practical test.

While an officer’s primary weapon is building relationships in the community, the dual responsibilities of supervision require officers to carry firearms. As sworn peace officers, Community Supervision Officers’ top priority is protecting the community. To uphold their oath, they must be prepared to execute arrests and appropriately respond to unexpected circumstances.

The training is conducted by DCS’s full-time training staff at GPSTC. In addition, adjunct instructors join this leg of training to ensure each individual cadet receives the amount of attention needed to develop the necessary skills.

Adjunct instructors are P.O.S.T. Certified Instructors who assist with training on top of their everyday jobs as Chiefs, Assistant Chiefs, administrative staff, and others. Their willingness to serve in this function is a testament to DCS’s collective commitment to training.

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