Training Unit
The primary function of the Training Unit is to plan and coordinate all training Sheriff’s Office employees undertake each year. Certified and corrections officers in Tennessee are required to complete 40 hours of training each year to maintain their certifications. It is the duty of the training staff to assure all P.O.S.T. (Peace Officer Standards and Training) certified, corrections, and civilian employees receive their required professional development training.
Peace Officer Standards & Training
P.O.S.T. certified deputies are trained in a variety of specialized subjects, including:
- Child Sexual Abuse
- Defensive Tactics
- Domestic Violence
- DUI Certification
- Emergency Vehicle Operations
- Firearms Qualifications
- Instructor Development
- Legal Updates
- Officer Survival
- Simulations Training
- TASER And Chemical Weapons Certifications
- Variety of Other Classes Related to Law Enforcement
In-Service Training
The Blount County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) also conducts in-service training for Maryville, Alcoa, and Townsend Police Departments, and the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority. This assures all certified law enforcement officers in Blount County receive the same training, allowing for efficiency and professionalism while working together on joint operations.
Training Facility
The Sheriff’s Office Training Facility is located off William Blount Drive on the west side of Blount County. It encompasses 39 acres, and includes a low and high ropes course that was built in 2003, a five acre driving track, and a 21-lane covered firing range. The ropes course and firing range are both used by the military and the Sheriff’s Office for training. The firing range includes a bullet catch system and electronically controlled targeting system. Overhead baffling assists as a sound barrier and helps to prevent ricochets and stray rounds from leaving the firing area.
Upgrades
None of these upgrades to the training facility would have been possible without the Air National Guard. The ANG assisted with the financing and labor for much of the work at the range. In exchange, the ANG utilizes the range regularly for their training needs. The BCSO also utilizes a shooting simulator located at the training facility. This system was purchased at no cost to taxpayers with drug funds, and is used to train officers in realistic events and use of force situations.
