By Derrick Forsythe, Record Staff Writer
Local residents had an opportunity to gain insight into the typical workday of a law enforcement officer during a recent six-week Citizens Police Academy series.Classes taught by Warrenton Police Sgt. Matt Mosher explained details of an officer’s job and possible scenarios faced while on duty.In addition, students in the academy learned how to handle and shoot handguns and spent time practicing on the range.“It’s just giving them a taste of what law enforcement does on a daily basis,” said Mosher. “From my perspective, it’s also what I would expect from my officers concerning safety, because that’s something we take really seriously.”Mosher says he based his information off the actual police academy curriculum and focused on the safety and basic fundamentals of marksmanship for the average person.“I wanted to get a behind the scenes look at what happens here in Warrenton — not only with our community but also with our police officers and what the jobs they do entail,” said Mark Johnson on why he decided to take the courses.Johnson was one of eight students to take part in the academy.“I’ve learned about what it takes whenever they’re doing stops and all the things they go through in their mind, as well as how to secure their own vehicle and the scene,” said Heather Scherffius.“I’ve also learned about the workings behind the scenes and the mindset you have to be in, because you’re putting yourself out there on the streets.”Becky Stewart and Johnson were the only two present for the range shooting day, taking turns at the target with the guidance of officers on each side.“I’ve learned how to do investigations, mark evidence and how to shoot the guns,” said Stewart. “I think learning to shoot the guns will be most beneficial, because I’ve never done it, so I’ll learn the safety aspects of it.”The students were excited to finish their schooling with a trip to the range, taking time to understand the proper ways to handle, load, unload and fire guns.“I have a healthy respect for firearms, and I’m excited to be able to go out and learn from their vast knowledge and be able to further my own skills in that area,” said Johnson.Warrenton resident Mark Johnson, center, practices target shooting guided by Warrenton police officers Kevin Swofford, left, and Matt Mosher, right, on July 22. Record photo/ Derrick Forsythe.
