2001 Citizen Police Academy Class

The Dawson County Sheriff’s Office held its first annual “Citizen Police Academy” in 2000. Approximately twenty-five Dawson County citizens graduated from the academy in January 2001. The academy allowed these citizens to get a first hand view of law enforcement in their community. They heard employees from all areas of the department and were able to tour our facilities and ride along with an officer on patrol. The graduates included; a college student, county commissioners, school board personnel, homemakers, and retired citizens. Based on the response of our graduates we feel the academy was a huge success. The 9th annual academy is scheduled for early fall of 2008.

The poem that follows was written by Jennifer Reid-Lord, a graduate of the 2001 Citizen Police Academy. It was written in tribute to the officers of the Dawson County Sheriff's Office.

TO BE LIKE YOU

There are things I have learned from you that I never knew before 

You have shared so many stories of good and bad experiences

It seems so natural and so wonderful that even now in your life you have taken the time to share with me what it is like to be an officer of the law

In so many ways you still stand strong even when things go bad

I've rode along with you to see first hand what it is like to be in your shoes. I understand a lot more of how you put your life on the line for me and the citizens of Dawson County

But here we are again sharing our ride along stories and what we have learned from you

Now more than ever I can say I stand strong and proud

It is so touching and so special to me that you as a friend and an officer of the law you still found the time to share this part of your life with me

It makes me even more proud of you as the law and proud to know I have had the chance to get to know you

I will always be honored of you and hope one day I will be just like you

By Jennifer Reid-Lord

If you or someone you know is interested in attending the “Citizen Police Academy,” contact Lt. Tony Wooten at 706/344-3535 or at wooten@dawsoncountysheriff.org