St. Landry Parish Sheriff's Office graduates

Posted: Jul 17, 2012 1:00 PM by Press Release

The St. Landry Parish Sheriff's Office announced today the graduation of three sheriff's deputies from the St. Martin Sheriff's Basic Training Academy. These deputies include Dy. Lance Firmin, Dy. Jeffery Mistric, and Dy. Eliot Bertrand.

The police academy is 11 weeks of intense and strenuous classes that instructs officers throughout the Acadiana area. During the course, cadets are instructed in firearms qualifications, physical fitness, first aid/CPR, academic courses, and must pass a State of Louisiana Police Officers Standard Training test to be certified as a peace officer.

During the academy the cadets are graded on academics to physical fitness then on graduation day, the top cadets receive awards and once again a deputy with the St. Landry Parish Sheriff's Office was recognized for their excellence during the academy. Dy. Lance Firmin was the recipient of two awards for being the Most Improved Physically Fit and the Top Gun award.

St. Landry Sheriff Director of Training, Captain Eddie Thibodeaux, opened the graduation with a speech commending the cadets on their achievement. Captain Thibodeaux also extends his knowledge to the St. Martin Police Training Academy helping instruct classes for Operation Life Saver, Railroad Crossing Safety, and Firearms Instruction. As Thibodeaux addressed the cadets he said, "From this moment on, you will now be referred to as law enforcement officers. Always remember the reason you chose this job, to help your family, friends, neighbors, and to give back to the community."

Sheriff Bobby J. Guidroz stated that he has stood by his Commitment to a Higher Standard, and that he will continue to place certified deputies on the streets of St. Landry Parish to better serve the public. Sheriff Guidroz would like to commend the deputies for their hard work and dedication while in the academy.

Sheriff Guidroz plans to send more deputies to the next police academy in August 2012.

Pictured starting from left is Director of Training, Captain Eddie Thibodeaux, Dy. Lance Firmin, Sheriff Bobby J. Guidroz, Dy. Eliot Bertrand, Dy. Jeffery Mistric, and Patrol Supervisor, Lt. Col. Paul Dicapo.