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Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office recently unveiled an opportunity for the average citizen to learn more about the inner workings of the sheriff’s office.
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OKEECHOBEE – Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office recently unveiled an opportunity for the average citizen to learn more about the inner workings of the sheriff’s office.
Major Michael Hazellief explained the new program will be an opportunity to give participants insight into the operations of the sheriff’s office. “One of the main purposes of this and other programs we have started is transparency and creating public trust,” he said. He went on to say the department now has body-worn cameras in place and the sheriff’s office has achieved accreditation which ensures they are held to a state-wide standard. Now that those goals have been accomplished, Hazellief said it is time to highlight the staff. “It’s like when you go see a play and then you go backstage and see all the people who run the lights and sound — the people who make things run smoothly on a daily basis.” He went on to add that most people think of the deputy in the car when they think of the sheriff’s office, but there is so much more that makes the office function.
The Citizen Academy will spotlight a different area of the sheriff’s department each week, beginning with the history of the Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office and the sheriff’s statutory responsibility. Animal control, jail, communication center, specialized units such as drone team, dive team, SWAT, detective bureau, crime scene investigation, etc. will all take part in educating the students. “People love CSI, but it’s not really like that,” said Hazellief. “Where they excel is in the courtroom. Our team is amazing at what they do.”
Classes will be held on Thursday nights from 5:30-8 p.m. beginning Sept. 4 and ending Oct. 30. To participate, you must be at least 21 years old and pass a background check. Because the classes start early in the evening, they will be providing snacks. There is no cost to attend, but there is an application process.
“Our goal is to enhance and grow and keep the public trust. We want you to come and see what we do here.”
“When people see what we do and gain a knowledge of it, it helps fill in the gaps. It’s human nature to fill in those gaps when you don’t know. We want you to see exactly why things are done a certain way.”
If you would like to sign up, apply right away as spots are limited, but if you miss this one, don’t worry. They plan to do it again. You can visit the sheriff’s office at 504 N.W. Fourth Street or call 863-763-3117.
