T355 Learns about Law Enforcement

February's monthly theme was on Citizenship. Part of the month was spent on learning about our legal system. On Monday, February 15th, Battle Creek Police attended a meeting to talk about the importance of their role in the legal system. Sergeant Todd Elliott and Officer Craig Long talked to Scouts about the daily life of an officer and different ways of how they incorporate themselves in the community.

Sgt. Elliott spent some time on different tactics that officers use to engage criminals and the importance of "talking them into handcuffs". "No one wants to be in handcuffs, and they most certainly don't want to go to jail, but it is easier for everyone if we attempt to talk individuals into being cooperative versus a physical confrontation." said Sgt. Elliott, a 19 year veteran of the Battle Creek Police Department.

Aside from issuing speeding tickets and responding to 911 calls the officers spoke to the Scouts about another importance of their job on how they engage the community by talking to businesses, working with different community organizations, and occasionally assisting citizens when they are in need of help such as flat tire or provide a set of ears for some who just needs to talk. Officer Long stressed that "we are here to serve the community, and sometimes we have to lend a hand for someone who is down on their luck."

Scouts learned about the requirements on how to become an officer and how the BCPD is looking for qualified individuals who have not only completed a police academy, but also officers who have completed their Associates Degree in the field of Criminal Justice or equivalent. Another discussion was on how Michigan has a unique certification process called the Michigan Coalition on Law Enforcement. Many departments across the state require officers, who are initially employed, to be able to meet the MCOLES standards which involves physical and academic requirements. Sgt. Elliott relayed that education is important and that their job requires the ability to have the writing skills necessary to be able to complete reports in detail and occasionally some basic math skills.

Sgt. Elliott concluded the evening with the department's Explorer Program; a branch of the Boy Scouts of America. Those who are interested, being boys and girls the ages of 14-20, can join the explorer program to further learn about Law Enforcement. Explorers learn basic police skills such as traffic stops, accident investigations, and building searches. Anyone interested the Police Explorer Program can apply downtown at the department on Division.

ABOVE: Sgt. Elliott talking about the process of taking someone into custody.

BELOW: Demonstration of "Stop Sticks" and how it plays a role in Law Enforcement

BELOW: Sgt. Elliott and Officer Long demonstrate "The Wrap" system that restrains violent individuals.