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TRAINING & SUPPORT SERVICES |
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Written by Tim Gobble, Sheriff
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Thursday, 17 September 2009 |
Capt. Jim Hodgson oversees the Training, Professional Development and Support Services Division of the BCSO. This division is responsible for a wide range of functions that support all other divisions and advances our overall effectiveness.
Law enforcement and Correctional professionals must complete regular training and in-service in order to stay current with the latest technology, regulatory requirements, training techniques, legal rulings, etc. Law enforcement deputies are required to maintain compliance with all state-mandated Peace Officer Standards and Training Commission requirements (P.O.S.T. certified) and Corrections deputies must be compliant with Tennessee Corrections Institute (TCI) standards. Training and Support organizes, coordinates and schedules this training, which is generally conducted in one of two training classrooms we have at the Justice Center Complex. These classrooms are equipped with the latest in video and audio technology and link to the Law Enforcement Training Network.
Currently, this division is also developing policies, procedures and processes intended to ensure compliance with operational and management standards established by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA).
Other areas under the responsibility of this division are:
• Information Technology coordinates the BCSO computer system, manages our internal Records Management System and Mobile Data System, and generally troubleshoots a wide range of computer issues.
• Fleet Services and Building Maintenance is responsible for servicing, repairing and maintaining the entire BCSO fleet, as well as performing maintenance duties for the entire Justice Center Complex.
• Search and Rescue Operations equipment and manpower is handled in cooperation with the Patrol Division and CID. This includes our Mobile Command Post vehicle and other necessary equipment, such as four-wheelers.
• The Crime Prevention program emphasizes a proactive approach to securing property and protecting lives by educating business and community groups on things they can do to reduce the risk of becoming a crime victim.
• The Wellness and Fitness program stresses the importance of nutrition and exercise. Deputies are now required to participate in on-duty physical fitness activities and undergo regular fitness evaluations.
• Clerical and administrative duties fall under this division as well, including managing the day-to-day supervision of the BCSO budgets and accounting functions, coordinating payroll and benefits, purchase orders, Human Resources, maintaining supplies and equipment inventory, assisting in the hiring process, serving as receptionist in the lobby of the Sheriff’s Office, answering our switchboard and a variety of other duties as needed.
Additionally, Training and Support Service personnel supervise the BCSO Honor Guard and coordinate the Bradley County Sheriff’s Citizen Academy and the Church Protection Program.
The responsibilities of this division are broad and diverse. They perform the day-to-day, “behind the scenes” functions that keep the entire BCSO operating smoothly. I appreciate the job they do.
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