Why I Love a Job that I Hate Exists

We live in a world that is broken. Genesis states that when God finished his creation on day 7 He rested because He saw that his Creation was “GOOD”.  That did not last long before sin entered into the world and the good Creation became broken and had to be separated from it’s Creator. 99% of the world’s 10,000 or so years of existence is no where near what it was intended. We were supposed to live in a world of love, support, and happiness…instead we live in a world of sin, anger, malice, sadness, and sickness. We live in a world broken and fallen…a world where someone has to intervene to uphold law and order. Before the fall there was no need for such a peacekeeper because law and order was interwoven into your being…you knew it and just did it…with sin that changed. We became creatures of our own will instead of God’s…creatures that wanted what’s best for us and not others or what’s best for God’s perfect Creation. One day Christ will return and that perfect Creation will be restored…until then sin and malice will roam free. One day my job will not exist.

We will one day live on this world as it was meant to be…I will have a new job in the New Creation because law enforcement will come naturally and laws and rules will not be broken because God’s creation will be focused on worshipping Him and that will be the driving force for all that is done. I cannot wait on the day that God says “Your work as a law enforcement officer is done because you are no longer needed…your new calling is ____.” Until then however I am going to do everything in my power to keep law and order and protect what is left of God’s perfect and beautiful creation because that is what He has called me to do. I cannot wait for the day that God’s Creation is made whole once again.

12-4

Today I had vehicle tactics (traffic stops) and absolutely nailed the scenario...excellent way to end a long and stressful week. 

Had Stress Course shooting this afternoon. 

Now back in Rock Hill for the night and Graduation tomorrow!! 

1 

12-3

Had Pedestrian Tactics today. Basically how to deal with calls out doors. My partner and I were told we handled our call very well with very little critique. Feel really good about that...first time I've felt good after a scenario. 

Had Advanced Firearms this afternoon. Basically shooting after moving and identifying different threats. 

Grabbing dinner tonight with a friend from USCPD then packing up and getting ready to roll out and head home tomorrow.

Only 1more night sleeping in this dreaded place!! 

2

12-2

Had Building Clearing this morning. Got shot quite a lot the first time and a little the second but he told us we did an excellent job the second. Had a deputy from Charleston County working with us...really appreciate him coming amidst all that's going on. 

Did cover and concealment course this afternoon and the Fire Arms Training Simulator (FATS) this afternoon. A ton of fun! 

Have a optional class we were told to be at tonight. 

3

12-1

Today we did Crisis House and had Tactical shotgun course.

I know you guys are interested in why I'm doing here but my mind just isn't in it today. 

Today I'm stuck on a little black nylon band. I got my badge last Friday ad the first thing I did was go buy a black band to put around it in honor of Deputy Mastuskovic. His funeral was today. People have asked why I have the band on my badge if I can't wear my badge yet and the answer is simple...it's for me. My badge is hanging in my locker with that black band. For the last week at SCCJA I will open my locker and everytime see my badge with that band and be reminded of his service and his life. As I look through pictures that my amazing friends at SC Police Cruisers and others took of the funeral I was struck by a couple small things. 

1) over 1,000 LEOs showed up for this funeral. Many of you know that friendship and relationship is a huge part of my life and has been the root of many struggles for me. It amazes me that all these officers never knew Joe yet still took time to come to honor his life and as of Friday will do the same for me.

2) most striking though was the public. So many citizens lines the roadways with flags. At a time when Line Of Duty Deaths is on the rise...today we saw a glimmer of hope. Our citizens were out in full force showing their respect and love for Joe. This gives me extreme hope thy what we are doing makes a difference. 

3) training is key. In no way am I saying that Joe did anything wrong but having an instructor fighting tears as he talks you through a scenario is a wake up. This was an officer from that area and the time was 10:00...just as the funeral began. I know he would have rather been celebrating his brother's life and sacrifice but instead came to train us because he knows the significance of always training.

Joe rest in peace brother. 

4

11-5

Good end to a rough week for SC.

I passed both of our last tests with a 98 and a 100. 

I loved DUI week. Impaired Driving Enforcement is a priority and one of the main reasons I wanted to work in Law Enforcement. It feels good to finally be certified in Standardized Field Sobriety Tests and as a Datamaster Breathalyzer Operator. 

As the weekend begins my thoughts and prayers are still with my brothers and sisters in Charleston. 

5 

11-4

LAST DAY OF 0445 RUNNING!!!

Had more SFST and DUI practice today. Got to watch some great dash cam videos of Kope doing his thing. 

Cannot wait to get out on the road and start putting this to use. #TargetZero Traffic Deaths in SC. 

2 tests tomorrow morning...feeling pretty good 

6 

11-3

Did DUI Training SFST with actual drunk people today. Ton of fun and learned A LOT!! 

Had our SFST proficiency test tonight...passed 1st try.

Up early tomorrow to run for the last time!! 

7

11-2

I have to begin by saying that my thoughts and prayers today have been with my brothers and sisters in Charleston County. Deputy Joe Matuskovic of the Charleston County Sheriff's Office was shot and killed early this morning. Another Deputy was also shot and is in critical condition last I heard. Please keep these families in your prayers. (The suspect was neutralized on scene after a standoff)

Had DUI today. We learned SFST (Standardized Field Sobriety Tests) and how to prosecute a DUI. Over all a pretty good day.

Had to run this morning bright and early...only one more of those left!

8

A Part Of America Died

Somebody killed a Policeman today,
and a part of America died.
A piece of our country he swore to protect,
will be buried with him at his side.

The suspect that shot him will stand up in court,
with counsel demanding his rights.
While a young widowed mother must work for her kids,
and spend many long, lonely nights.

The beat that he walked was a battle field too,
just as if he'd gone off to war.
Though the flag of our nation won't fly at half mast,
to his name they will add a gold star.

Yes, somebody killed a policeman today,
in your hometown or in mine.
While we slept in comfort behind our locked doors,
a cop put his life on the line.

Now his ghost walks a beat on a dark city street,
and he stands at each rookies side.
He answered the call, of himself gave his all,

And A Part Of America Died.

11-1

DUI week has begun! Thanks to 3 excellent DUI officers: Tim, Jake, and Chris I have been looking forward to this week since we started. Traffic and DUI has become my passion in Law Enforcement and is what I want to focus on. Very excited to finally be here. There is no excuse for Impaired Driving: especially leading to a death and I want to be a part of the solution. 

Only 2 weeks left!! We are single digits 

9 

10-5

Did Crisis House today. Basically you respond to a call and handle it. Can't reveal any details other than that. 

Very fun and beneficial! 2 weeks left including DUI week!! 

10 

10-4

Had Courtroom and Traffic practicals today. Won my court case and did well on traffic stop. 

11

10-3

Had active shooter training yesterday. We had a great time and learned, in the words of Mr Franklin, a metric a$$ ton of valuable lessons. 

I cannot reveal training details but I got shot 2x. Fortunately neither would have been kill shots but it's very eye opening knowing you could have been killed if this was real. Really shows how important and valuable training is.

Last night we learned to breach doors and did more building clearing.

12 

10-2

Had Building Clearing practical today. Learned how to properly and safely clear a building of threats. I was shot a couple times but learned a lot!! Doug did an excellent job teaching and helping. Brett from Irmo was a great partner.

We had traffic stops tonight but it's pouring rain and power is out in our building so not much going on. 

13

10-1

Well back at it for another week. Practicals (hands on training) starts this week 

We did Active Shooter classroom training today. Very interesting stuff. Had Liberty tonight so got to go back to Rock Hill and see the family. 

We are officially seniors now so the end is near!! 

14

9-5

Last BIG test today! Made an 86. Practicals start next week!!

Had Collision Investigation practicals today. Have to work on them more this weekend. 

Ending the week with Deputy Andy Fowler in my thoughts and prayers and ask the same from you guys. Andy is a Traffic/DUI Enforcement Deputy for the York County Sheriff's Office. As many of you know Traffic is my passion. I have worked a couple checkpoints with Andy and he is really a stand up guy and needs our thoughts and prayers. Attached is a link to a page to help support his family's medical expenses...you can read his story there. Thank you all.

http://www.gofundme.com/dhan7k

15

9-4

Had a class this morning on how to testify in court...we have a practical next week in this so this should be interesting.

After lunch we did traffic stop practicals outside. It was REALLY hot!!

16

9-3

Good day today. 

Covered traffic stops and hazardous materials in class today. 

We are all giving blood tonight so Capt decided not to make us get up and run tomorrow!! Get to sleep in just a little bit tomorrow. 

17 

9-2

Good day today.

Ran this morning and then had class.

We covered TR-310 (Collision Reports), SC Uniform Traffic Citations, and Field Contacts/Warnings.

18

9-1

Traffic week has begun. We did a lot of collision stuff today. Overall a quick day. 

Have to be up to run tomorrow at 4:45 so off to bed early tonight! 

19

8-5

No test this week so pretty uneventful Friday.

Finished up Responding to Crimes class.

Next week is Traffic week!

20

8-4

Pretty good day today.

Woke up to run and planned to run C group as normal...Capt Crossland picked me out to run B though...my legs are killing me! My days from Cross Country are most definitely in the past!

Had Responding to Crimes again in the classroom all day.

No test tomorrow thank goodness! Hopefully can get some decent sleep tonight. Between running and Ground Defense I'm pretty sore.

Class 622 below us got some media attention yesterday. http://www.wistv.com/story/26330475/sc-criminal-justice-cadets-learn-to-establish-relationships?autostart=true

Slowly the number of days left gets lower and lower

21

8-3

Not much to say about today.

Had Responding to Crimes all day in class.

Went out to eat tonight...was very nice to get away for a bit.

Up early to run tomorrow...rumor is they are splitting up C group...I REALLY hope its a rumor cause I'm not ready for B group.

"Faith is a living, daring confidence in God's grace, so sure and certain that a man could stake his life on it a thousand times." - Martin Luther (thank you Hailey)

22

8-2

Finished up Ground Defense...I actually really enjoyed that stuff.

Had class this afternoon on making arrests. 

Now to bed early...it's been a long day. 

23

8-1

Week 8!!! 

Today was a good day. Did Ground Defense this morning which wasn't as bad as expected.

Had Mind Armor class in the afternoon where we talked about the stress of working in LE. 

Now it's time for bed...up early in the morning to run unfortunately!

24

7-5

Sorry for the late post...had a great weekend with great friends and family so I wasn't thinking about updating.

Got a 90 on the last test and got to leave kinda early on Friday so overall a good day.

Really not wanting to be back here AT ALL tonight...this weekend really got me excited about being back in Rock Hill...unfortunately we are still 5 weeks away from that.

25

7-4

Good day today. Had On Duty and Off Duty Survival this morning...hands down the best class at SCCJA. Doug did an excellent job with VERY applicable information. This was a very beneficial class and will definitely help us out. If you didn't feel something after this class...you don't need to be a cop. 

We had Drug Enforcement this afternoon with Doug as well...good class.

While I hate SCCJA...God does work for good in the darkest places. My roommate Wes had a baby today at 14:05. Baby Adalynn was born and I was asked to be the godfather of her. I am very blessed at this request and can't wait to see the young lady she becomes. 

However many blessings we expect from God, His infinite liberality will always exceed all our wishes and our thoughts. ~ John Calvin

26 

7-3

Decent day.

Had to do pushups this morning cause we pissed off the Capt again.

Had a Psychology class this morning then Traffic this afternoon.

Somehow we did get our liberty back so we were able to go out tonight which was much needed.

One more day of class then our test...unfortunately we do have to run in the morning...

27

7-2

Terrible day.

Started with morning runs...some people decided to get sarcastic with the instructor so we ended up doing pushups afterwards.

Then had room inspections where half the hallway decided to either be leaning against walls or even stupid enough to sit down when Capt walked through...therefore no liberty Wed night.

Had class after that. Our Traffic instructor is a former RHPD officer...should be cool.

"And I will give you the treasures hidden in the darkness - secret riches. I will do this so you may know that I am the Lord, the God of Israel, the One who calls you by name." Isaiah 45:3

28

7-1

We are OFFICIALLY JUNIORS!!!

Covered Sexual Assault and Mental Illness today so all classroom stuff, nothing really exciting to report.

Have to get up and run tomorrow morning...I would be excited about this week b/c we start some traffic stuff tomorrow but the running I AM NOT looking forward to...actually not the running...the getting up I'm not looking forward to.


"Awake, my soul, and sing
of Him who died for thee,
and hail Him as thy matchless King
through all eternity"
- Crown Him with Many Crowns

29

6-5

Got a 84 on the test...not at all happy with that but it is what it is...time to move forward and look ahead.

Talked about Gangs all day afterwards.

30

6-4

Well formation run again this morning! Up since 4:00

I really just want SLEEP!!! We had class all day again. Covered Victimology and Harassment/Stalking.

Still fighting a cold unfortunately.

Just moved downstairs to the 2nd floor...our next move will be down the road to the main building!!

"I not only know who I am, I also know where I am going. May your troubles be less, your blessings more, and  may nothing but happiness come through your door. Life without God is like an unsharpened pencil - it has no point." - Billy Graham (thanks Boom Boom...love you!)

31

6-3

Sorry for the late post

We had Vulnerable training on Wed 

Sorry for the short posts this week...we are all very very tired and running on little sleep and are sitting in the classroom all day. 

32

6-2

Overall a good day at SCCJA but mentally draining.

Got up at 4:45 to run...ran in C group...did ok...we run again Thur morning.

Had CDV again this morning.

After that we had Child Abuse this afternoon. Very very draining looking at the pictures/hearing about abusive parents all afternoon. Most everyone left very angry. If I am ever to the point where that stuff does not bother me I will quit this job...anyone who isn't bothered by what we saw/talked about today needs help...that's not an exaggeration.

Freshmen group had DT test today...and get sprayed tomorrow so we get to watch that!

Going to leave you with my favorite verse as I need some encouragement....this verse always helps:

"You yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ" - 1 Peter 2:5.

Everything we do has a purpose...a purpose that will be fulfilled in Glory upon our death. It is amazing to think that everything we work for in life is so that we will fulfill our calling...a calling that does not end here or is even fulfilled here...it will be fulfilled in heaven where we live and see God for who He truly and fully is.

33

6-1

Had an amazing weekend in Rock Hill. Met some great new friends from the church. Really looking forward to being home full time and getting back involved at WPC and growing these new friendships and making many more.

It was very hard to come back this week after such a good weekend. Unfortunately there was no choice. All week this week is classroom.

We did Criminal Domestic Violence today (CDV).

I believe I am getting a cold so prayers appreciated to get through this. We have formation runs tomorrow morning at 5:15 which means getting up even earlier than normal so I am headed to bed here very soon.

34

5-5

Passed driving first attempt in the rain! 

Shot a 217...wasn't happy but it qualified so now to move forward! 

Back to the classroom next week and the start of formation runs! 

35

5-4

Great day! Drove awesome and shot awesome! Ran the ROC with full emergency equipment which was great! 

Shot a 230/250 today.

Night driving tonight 

It's pouring rain though so this should get interesting 

36 

5-3

Another good day at SCCJA. Drove the full ROC at slow speed today. Did very well on it.

Then shot this afternoon. Ended up 46/50, 49/50 and 23/25. Trooper working with me told me I had nothing to worry about. It was a very good day and put me more at ease about both tests! 

Heading out at 2030 tonight for night shooting...should be fun! Both RHPD Sgt told me to relax that I was doing fine today so that helped as well. 

Waiting on pizza now before we head back out. It's been VERY HOT this week! 

"The Lord bless you and keep you;

25 the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you;
26 the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace." Numbers 6:24-26. 

36

5-2

Another good day at the SCCJA.

Drove this morning...did part of the Response Operating Course (ROC) which is designed to simulate driving Code 3 (blue lights and sirens). We did part of the precision part: slalom forward and reverse and then backing up in a straight line. After that we did the skid pad...which is some of the most fun I've ever had driving a car. My instructor is a traffic deputy for Lexington Co and was VERY disappointed he did not get me to spin out and that I saved it every time...he tried his hardest but couldn't make it happen...I was quite proud.

I was not proud of how I shot. Today I shot: 44/50, 46/50, and 23/25. I was low and left every time. The 2 firearms instructors from RHPD came down to work with me today and I over thought it trying to make sure I did well in front of them and in turn did not shoot too well.

We had a night class on Joint Terrorism Response which was actually pretty interesting overall.


Sgt was able to give me a lot of good help so hopefully tomorrow will be a better day at the pistol range. Driving we are running the whole ROC slowly 2x. Should be a good day

So far this is hands down the fastest week at SCCJA

"You must take your place in the Circle of Life" - Mufasa

37

5-1

What a great day!

Woke up at 5:30 (not so great especially after not sleeping well). Had driving first thing this morning. We did braking exercises without ABS. I MURDERED some cones but by the end I got it down and had a perfect run. Our instructor was pretty cool for it and we had a ton of fun.

After lunch we had shooting. It was REALLY REALLY hot but a lot of fun. 2 of our Sgts are here as firearms instructors so that is helping seeing some familiar faces for once. Shot 49/50, 48/50 and 25/25.

Pretty good day.

It is good to finally have applicable stuff. More LEOs are killed each year in traffic accidents or firearm related incidents so it's good to actually have stuff that will help us out and keep us safe.

Headed to bed pretty soon, I'm exhausted and have to do it all over again tomorrow.

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God." Matthew 5:9

4-5

Finally the weekend! Got a 94 on the test thanks for all the prayers! Had driving and shooting orientation. Next week should be decently fun with shooting and driving.   

40 

4-4

Finished up PT for good at the SCCJA today! Did knife defense again in DT.

Did evidence class this afternoon...supposedly our hardest test is tomorrow so prayers are appreciated.

Over all a good day. Ordering dinner and then going to study and hopefully get to bed early!

"Now, Lord, I would be Yours alone
And live so all might see
The strength to follow Your commands
Could never come from me
Oh Father, use my ransomed life
In any way You choose
And let my song forever be
My only boast is You"

41 

4-3

Decent today at SCCJA. Had PT/DT this morning. Did not get much sleep last night so I have been dragging all day...drink machine finally restocked Diet Dew so I'm feeling a bit more awake.

Had class on Crime Scene and Physical Evidence...a lot of which I had in a lecture at USC from the same teacher and from my previous internship. Have a hands on portion of Crime Scene tonight.

Going to study after class and then sleep hopefully early tonight. If we can get through tomorrow and then the test on Friday we should be good.

“Praise the Lord! Praise God in his sanctuary, praise him in his mighty heavens! Praise him for his mighty deeds; praise him according to his excellent greatness! Let everything that has breath praise the Lord! Praise the Lord!” Psalm 150:1-2,6

42

4-2

Been a decent day...long overall though. Started with PT this morning then did vehicle extractions for DT.

Had class on Miranda after lunch.

Prayers appreciated. Getting stressed/frustrated and those of you that know me well know that is not a good thing.

"Clear Eyes, Full Hearts, Can't Lose" - Friday Night Lights

4-1

Today started with PT...can tell we are all getting in better shape...less huffing and puffing afterwards. Then had DT...did more weapon retention.

Had class on Interrogation today. It was a really good class with a fantastic instructor who really seemed to care about us and viewed us as brothers and sisters as opposed to students.

Overall decent day. Unfortunately we lost one yesterday retaking the PAT.

Freshman class is here. Two guys from RH...haven't spoken to them today but last night they were all good.

"Hallelujah all I have is Christ. Hallelujah Jesus is my life"

44

3-5

Whoohoo! Time for a weekend! 

Feels good to be back home. No test today. We did a whole day doing a FEMA course on Terrorism. We are not tested on the material but we were able to learn quite a lot of valuable information. Also were given a lot of free books that will greatly enhance my Law Enforcement experience. 

A nice quote stolen from a tweet by my good friend Mjr TJ Geary with USCPD: "Each of us must be committed to maintaining the reputation of all of us. All of us must be committed to maintaining the reputation of each of us." 

Law enforcement is without a doubt a family and each of us as an individual impacts the reputation of that family across the world. We must stay vigilant in making sure that is a positive reputation. 

45

3-4

Had class all day. Learned about specific crimes.

We get to move down to the third floor tonight!! Then study and bed!

46 

3-3

Well well well...the day has FINALLY come and gone. OC (Pepper) Spray is FINALLY completed...kinda. I have some time so I'll try to fill you in.

Started the morning out very well. I went to bed at 8:45 last night so I got a great night's sleep (planning the same for tonight). Then we went down for OC. Basically lined up and got to it. We were lined up by spray type. Jesse and I had 10% (The most potent you can legally use as a LEO) Foam spray. That means it sticks longer and burns more but is easier to decontaminate (decon). After a bit of a wait we went out and lined up. The we went up and were asked a couple questions. Told to close our eyes and hold our breath. Then they sprayed us. We had to punch a strike bag a couple times and were escorted to Decon 1. The burn kicked in right between the bag and Decon. Now when I say burn...it is like nothing you have ever experienced. It's made of Cheyenne pepper. It was BAD...not taser bad but it was BAD. We then had to sit and let water run in our face and pat our face/blow our nose over and over into a rag and wash our face over and over with Dawn. At this point anytime the water was not touching your face it felt like you were standing in a fire...and that is not an exaggeration. Stayed there about 10 min. We could not leave Decon 1 until we could open our eyes and count the fingers of the person doing our Decon. Finally was able to do that and led over to Decon 2. This was a large fan and we were given ice bags. By this point I had no problem opening my eyes but the burn was seriously unbearable unless the ice and fan were blowing. Stayed there 10-15 min as well until I could sprint upstairs to the showers. Insert a special thank you to Capt Phillips of the West Columbia Police Dept for all the help in Decon 2!! Went upstairs and immediately threw away my shirt that was covered in OC. Stuck my head in the shower and began washing over and over. Eventually the burn subsided enough to change and get back downstairs. Ended up with OC all over my face and ears, arms, and legs due to the foam falling. Took about 1 hour to 1.5 hours for all the burn to finally subside.

Then we had classroom on OC and then our proficiency test for OC. Passed it.

Took a shower a few min ago and my ears and legs reactivated so I am burning pretty bad right now...should subside soon.

We have liberty tonight so I am going to eat with Adam Jackson...at Chili's (note the irony).

"I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength" -Philippians 4:13

47

3-2

Passed written DT test with a 92 and no critiques on my practical (equal to a 100). Very long and stressful day...hoping to get to bed early.

OC (Pepper) Spray tomorrow. Should be fun!!

Going to bed early tonight!

Behold my servant, whom I uphold;
My chosen one in whom My soul delights. I have put My Spirit upon him; he will bring forth justice to the nations. Isaiah 42:1 (Thanks Clara!!)

3-1

Day 1 of week 3 in the bag. Went by pretty quickly. Reviewed everything that will be on our DT test tomorrow (written in the AM and then practical). Lots of prayers appreciated!! 

"6 do not be anxious about anything,but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Phillipians 4:6-7 (Thanks Taylor for sending a small part of Ernest's message from Belize!!) 

WPC

As I sit back in the room at the SCCJA I wanted to take a minute to talk about something a little different than that Police Academy.

I have been thinking all day about the message Dr Honeycutt gave today at Westminster Presbyterian Church. As many of you know his message really hit home with me today. It is so refreshing to hear a pastor speak so openly and honestly about a struggle you have dealt with and know the ins and outs of. Dr Honeycutt is truly a blessed man and has an amazing way to take the ins and outs of the Gospel and hit them home and make them apply to your life. My time at the SCCJA has been very difficult but today's message was exactly what I needed right when I needed it. Knowing that Godly men like David, Moses, and Elijah all suffered as well as great pastors like Spurgeon and Honeycutt really puts life in perspective and makes it easier to get through this time. 

I have had many great family members and friends stand with me through these struggles. It has been trying but some great people have truly helped me through this. I love each of you and thank you.

I cannot express how much I love WPC and everyone there. Walking into the church today and having people tell me they are praying for me and have been reading this blog was very uplifting and motivational and gave me the power to move forward for another week. Today I did not dread coming back...I somewhat looked forward to it. Knowing that so many people are supporting me, praying for me, and standing behind me was amazing! Thank you all from the bottom of my heart.

The texts, comments, messages, etc are all so very welcomed and appreciated. I am doing the best I can to reply to each of them. I love you all dearly and you all have truly blessed me.

Thank you all again. 

2 Corinthians 12:8-10 "8 Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this, that it should leave me. 9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong."

2-5

Finally home after week 2 at SCCJA. 

Another pretty good day today. Had Legals Test 2 this morning. Was able to pull out a 100 on it. Study Group averaged a 94 again...well done team! 

After we had class time and learned about report writing.

After lunch we had DT. Did Baton Strikes. RHPD does not carry batons but it was still fun smaking people (with pads) with sticks! 

My entire body is sore and I'm exhausted. Looking forward to this much needed weekend! 

Some of you have probably been expecting a Lion King quote at some point so this week gets #1...I'm sure many more will follow but this sums up how I'm feeling. 

"Hakuna Matata" - Timon and Pumba from Walt Disney's "The Lion King"

50

2-4

Absolutely phenomenal day at The SCCJA today! Hands down without a doubt our best day so far.

We all were expecting a terrible day but it turns out an entire day of DT is great! This being said even if we were punished with pushups.

Started out the morning with a minimal stretching routine for PT. Then jumped right in to DT. Learned the shoulder pin restraint.

After lunch it was straight back to the gym for more DT (some people lined up late so insert those pushups here). Learned about striking today. Learned neck strikes, strikes to keep subjects away from us, knee strikes, angle kicks to the thigh, and kicks to the lower leg at the foot. All were done with full pads so we really got to get into it.

At the end we all lined up and went around the gym hitting each other (Think of how riot control looks with their shields and that is what we looked like). That was by far the most fun part.

Now getting Seal Team 7 Study Group together after we order pizza and hang out a bit.

Test tomorrow includes, 1st Amendment, Ethics in LE, Courts and Courtroom Procedure, and 3 days worth of Searches (including search warrants and their exceptions.

Feeling pretty confident about the test tomorrow. Gonna start looking over DT stuff this weekend. Proficiency Test and written test for it is Tue. Uncle Steve has volunteered to be a test dummy...good luck!

"Stay in the fight! Whenever times seem tough or you feel like you can't go on stay in the fight. You got this." - Jake McCoy (USCPD). Thanks for the encouragement Jake! 

2-3

Today was pleasantly decent 

Had our final class on Searches this morning and learned about Search Warrants. 

Had PT (actually we didn't they gave us an unexpected break...my muscles over my entire body love them). Then DT. Learned how to keep people from taking our weapon and how to disarm people with a weapon by going hands on. 

Had class tonight and practiced writing a warrant.

Now to study! 

Tomorrow we wake up and immediately have PT and will have DT all day! Should be extremely long and painful...learning about striking people. 

Prayers appreciated. 

"Nothing can stop the man with the right mental attitude from achieving his goal; nothing on earth can help the man with the wrong mental attitude." -Thomas Jefferson (thanks mom!) 

"Relying on God has to begin all over again everyday as if nothing get had been done." -C.S. Lewis (thanks Hunter D! Helping me keep going on quiet times when sleep tries to sneak in!) 

52

2-2

Well today started out on a great note. 2 people were late for formation so we had to hold the "up push up position" for about 2 min give or take...not the best way to start the day...especially after getting threatened with extra PT yesterday. Time for our class to "lock it up" as Off Roberts keeps saying.

Class this morning was on exceptions to the search warrant requirement...such as searching vehicles, public areas, incident to arrest, etc etc. 

Lunch was decent...fried chicken and dinner was beef stew...not so decent.

Had VERY HARD PT after lunch. We all are exhausted and very sore. After PT was DT. We did pressure points...NOT FUN AT ALL. 

Went to supplemental DT this evening and went over everything again. Anyone willing to volunteer as a test dummy this weekend???

Tomorrow is when and how to get a search warrant...then more PT/DT.

Please keep praying...it's been a long week already and people are getting touchy about stuff...especially if it means whole class punishment. 

"Obstacles are those fruitful things you see when you take your eyes off your goal" - Henry Ford (Thanks Hailey)

Quotes and verses...keep 'em coming.

53

2-1

We are back! Now 11 weeks without a break! It hasn't been an easy transition back. Did not sleep at all last night and up at 5:30 this morning. 

Class consisted of Searches. We learned the different times we can and cannot search based on location. 

DT today consisted of joint manipulation. Basically how to take someone to the ground through pain compliance of locking out elbows and shoulders etc. 

Also started PT today. Did push-ups, sit-ups, and squats (air squats) after a 12:00 min. Overall not bad

Tomorrow we are getting in trouble most likey push-ups at some point for talking on the food line...kinda pissed about that. 

Very much ready for Sept 19 at 10:00 AM. 

"The beloved of the LORD dwells in safety. The High God surrounds him all day long, and dwells between his shoulders." Deuteronomy 33:12 (Thanks Clara Gilles!!) 

Keep the quotes and verses coming!! They really help! 

54

Day 6

Today was a great day! Started the morning off with Test 1 covering EVERYTHING from this week. I passed with a 96. The entire class 621 passed so no one went home!

After the class we had class. We covered ethics and courtroom procedure. Gonna have to go back and study that again cause we were all exhausted and everyone was ready to get home for the weekend!

We have next week off due to the 4th. Here's wishing everyone a safe week back home at your respective depts.

Also special shout out to Seal Team 6: we are hands down the best study group ever! The combo of RHPD/Aynor/Irmo/Orangeburg averaged a 95 of the exam! Our lowest was a 90 and highest 100. Doesn't get much better than that if you ask me. JP Strom better BOLO cause one of us will be taking it home.

Won't be posting next week but will be back July 6 as we head back!

"Sometimes there is Justice...sometimes it's Just Us" - Anonymous

55 (my favorite 10 code - DUI)

Day 5

Another good day at the SCCJA. Learned about Arrests and Detentions in class. Lots of information but have a good grasp on it.

Had DT this afternoon and did High Risk speed cuffing at gun point. Then how to search a suspect.

Study time...our first test is tomorrow.

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" Philippians 4:13

56

Day 4

Day 4 went well. It was actually semi enjoyable. Covered Probable Cause and Exclusionary rule in class. Then had DT. Learned how to handcuff semi combative subjects. We learned the iron wrist lock take down. Hurts like hell but is extremely effective. Still have some practicing to do on it but one of the Irmo guys, Chris, and I went and practiced a bit tonight and were able to help teach some other people the basics behind it. Really fueled my desire to be a FTO one day (assuming we get through these 12 weeks).

Food SUCKS....but could be worse. These 12 weeks are not going to help the fact that my belt is already too small to hold everything it needs too.

The study group has expanded from Aynor and RHPD to now include Irmo PD, Orangeburg DPS, and York County Sheriff's Office. One of us better win the dang JP Strom award as much work as we put into this.

A basic day is: wake up, formation, breakfast (skip and eat in room...allows quiet time/alone time (you will need to get away from certain individuals for those of you who maybe reading this coming to The Academy later)), formation, march around the barracks, class time, lunch, PT/DT, dinner, extra option DT with Mr Evans (again future Academy people: GO TO THIS whether your agency mandates you too or not), then study study study. Thanks to the extra week off we are not studying for DT tests yet and only focusing on legals. I will read/study DT all next week.

Again everyone is still doing well and our class is holding strong at 65. First big test is Friday morning.

"Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed. Proverbs 16:3 " (thanks Mom!)

57

Day 3

Will edit later to include what we did.

Woke up at 0500 this morning, we will just call it getting used to 0600-1800 day shift. Got ready only to find out it was raining...so after standing out in the increasing rain for about 10 minutes waiting on people to show up to formation I'm back in the room. Protein bars for breakfast are better than mystery breakfast in the cafeteria...plus there is Diet Mountain Dew in the drink machine...and I NEED caffeine!!

Everyone is pretty sore from yesterday. Only going to get worse today. PT today includes push ups, running, etc...will let you know how that goes...unless the soreness gets better it's gonna suck pretty dang bad! 

About time to take books to class and get ready for formation...will update more tonight.

**UPDATE**

About to start studying for the evening but a quick update on what we did today.

Had class on Civil Liability this morning. Very interesting and useful but a TON of information to get down and learn.

Had our first Physical Training (PT) today. Did a 12 minute run...everyone completed it without walking. Then 3 sets of 10 push ups, 3 sets of 15 crunches in various forms, and 3 sets of 10 air squats. Got through them all...really sore now though.

Had DT again after and began working on speed handcuffing. Caught on to that pretty quickly wasn't bad at all. Tomorrow we start pain compliance techniques so will probably be VERY sore tomorrow. Lots of classes tomorrow as well.

So far food has been decent. Haven't gone to breakfast...been using that as quiet time and getting ready...lunch and dinner though haven't been bad at all.

Time to get the Aynor PD/RHPD study group going again. Everyone is doing well.

"The roots of education are bitter, but the fruit is sweet." - Aristotle (Thank you to Mjr TJ Geary with USCPD for the encouragement)

Some of you know that I'm big on quotes/verses so if you come across anything good please shoot them my way. Almost to the mid week point and encouragement would be awesome.

58

Day 2

Quick update before studying. Covered the history and different parts of the Constitution and Bill of Rights and how they pertain to LE today. Started Defensive Tactics (DT). Worked on Interview Stance and the first basic steps to keep a suspect from attacking you. Lots of lecture on DT tonight. Physical Training starts tomorrow before DT...probably going to be terrible...couple of people slept through the DT lecture...and seeing as he is the PT instructor this is NOT going to be pleasant.

Roommate is from Aynor PD...great guy. Jesse is doing well. All going to study here in a few minutes. Everyone is exhausted and ready to get this behind us. 

Special thanks to Austin for making me do extra shoulder workouts...paid off today big time! Thanks bud.

Sorry it's short and too the point...lots of reading to do.

Will update as soon as I can.

"For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it. Therefore lift your drooping hands and strengthen your weak knees and make straight the paths for your feet" Hebrews 12:11-13 (Thanks Caroline for sending this!)

59

1-1

Day 1 – Today we arrived at the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy in Columbia around 1300. We were supposed to do our Physical Abilities Test (PAT) at 1400. From 1300 – 1400 we literally walked around the perimeter of the gym. At 1400 we signed the remaining paperwork and lined up in alphabetical order and ran the PAT. I ended with a time of 1:15…around 16 seconds quicker than my time during the RHPD application process. After the PAT we lined up and practiced marching, turning, standing in formation, etc etc. We then broke for dinner and returned to campus around 1845. Upon return we went to our classroom for orientation. During orientation we went over rules etc. We then had accountability at 2000. This is when we did head counts with all the academy classes to make sure everyone had returned. Being the newbies we were required to do 20 pushups which SUCKED…they weren’t straight…we had to do them as the instructor called them out to us…so up when he said and down when he said. Then back to the rooms for the evening.

My roommate is from Aynor PD. So far so good on that front. Jesse from RHPD is also doing well. Time to just put our heads down and get through it. Tomorrow we have to be in formation at 0630 and then eat at 0655. Will try to post tomorrow night on what the day holds.

Texts/FB messages are still greatly appreciated. We were told the first 3 weeks will be the most stressful and hard to get through. Prayers are also greatly encouraged!

Didn’t have time to proof this one…it’s late and I’m ready to sleep.

1 Peter 2:5 “You yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.”