No law enforcement agency can survive without a solid training program: enter our Field Training Division. Under the leadership of Captain Matthew Sortini, this division oversees the training of all new hires as well as all patrol training. They also work closely with other divisions to cross-train deputy sheriffs in multiple technical fields, and spark interest in career paths for our members.

BECOMING A FIELD TRAINING OFFICER:

• Deputy sheriffs are eligible to enroll in this division once they achieve the rank of Corporal. Becoming a Field Training Officer is required to become a Sergeant. All Sergeants (and higher paygrades) must obtain and retain their FTO certification indefinitely, and regularly participate in training new hires via privatized scheduled training, and our academy.

• Seasoned FTOs may be selected to become Field Training Supervisors, regardless of their paygrade. FTO Supervisors are eligible to host department-wide training and refresher courses for all ranks once every two-to-four weeks. They are also expected to supervise other FTOs, especially in the academy.

BLAINE COUNTY SHERIFF'S ACADEMY:

• Field Training Officers regularly host the Blaine County Sheriff's Academy, wherein they train new hires every Saturday and Monday. New hires will undergo rigorous training including:

  • • • • • • • Studying and understanding our policies, standard operating procedures, and penal system

              • Studying the Use of Force Continuum and proper de-escalation techniques

              • Weapons training, basic investigative training, mock-up scenarios and more!

• New hires will be graded according to their performance and ability to demonstrate their skill and learning. New hires who cannot attend the academy due to time constraints may also opt in for a private scheduled training course with our FTOs, that must be completed within 14 days of hire.