Citizen’s Law Enforcement Academy Weeks Two & Three

Crime scene processing and use of force and law enforcement considerations

During the third week of the program, the class learned about use of force by law enforcement, including discussions about lethal and less lethal force.
(Photos Courtesy Lincoln County Sheriff's Office)

LINCOLNTON, N.C. - The Lincoln County Sheriff's Office Citizen’s Police Academy participants learned about crime scene processing, during their second week of this program. Lieutenant Dylan Houser began the class with an overview of Lincoln County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Division, explained how cases are assigned, discussed how crime scenes are processed, and went over law enforcement considerations at crime scenes.

The class was then given the opportunity to see how a crime scene is processed and the tools used to do so. This allowed the participants an up-close look at how crime scenes are photographed, processed, searched, and how evidence is collected. Each participant then made a shoe impression, using a foam mold, which they cast with dental stone, allowing them to see how shoe impressions are collected as evidence at a crime scene.

During the third week of the program, the class learned about use of force by law enforcement, including discussions about lethal and less lethal force. Participants learned about appropriate use of force and law enforcement considerations when force is needed to protect citizens, protect themselves, or even to effect an arrest.

Lieutenant Dylan Houser, who is a TASER master instructor, gave a presentation about the use of force in law enforcement. This included a detailed look at the history of TASER conducted energy weapons, how they operate, what makes them effective, and discussed situations where they may be used.

First Sergeant Daniel Rodems and Sergeant Seth Hovis talked with the class about the use of firearms, when it comes to law enforcement duties, as well as safe handling of firearms.

The class then got the chance to complete a firearms course, using “simunition” firearms, including a decision-making portion. Participants were asked to make quick decisions on whether to shoot a specific target or not, allowing them a better understanding of the split-second decisions, which often have to be made by law enforcement officers.

Download the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office smart phone app for notifications about the sheriff’s office, for inmate and arrest information, to apply for a concealed carry permit, and more. Anyone who has information on a crime is asked to call the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office (704-732-9050), Lincoln County Communication (704-735-8202) or Lincolnton/Lincoln County Crime Stoppers (704-736-8909).

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