Eagle Times Staff
CONCORD, NH — The New Hampshire Department of Corrections graduated its 122nd Corrections Academy class from the pre-service training on Sept. 15. The ceremony took place at the Arthur D. Kehas Law Enforcement Training Center at the New Hampshire Police Standards and Training Council facility, with the commencement address delivered by Michelle Edmark, the Warden at the New Hampshire State Prison for Men.
Several graduates received awards honoring their achievements in the academy. Officer Christopher Campo received the prestigious Arthur D. Kehas Outstanding Officer Award, and the Jeremy T. Charron Award presented by American Legion Post 122.
The Academic Award was given to Officer Paul Cyr Jr. The Highest Level of Physical Fitness Award was given to Officer Raven Griffith. Officer Chelsea Caron received the Class Appreciation Award, and Officer Delaney Robinson received the New Hampshire Technical College Institute Scholarship Award.
In her commencement address, Warden Edmark touched upon the many responsibilities of corrections officers, which not only include ensuring the safety of residents and staff, but also offering guidance and assisting residents with their individual rehabilitation.
The eight-week academy for new officers provides them with the tools and resources needed to work in a correctional environment. All graduates received a variety of training, including ethics, stress management, communications, contraband introduction, mental health, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), scenarios, and constitutional law.
The recruit officers received approximately 40 hours of physical fitness training, training in defensive tactics, certification in baton and pepper spray, and corrections specific laws.
Following graduation, the recruit officers will attend two weeks of post-academy firearms training prior to returning to their facilities.
“I am thrilled to welcome this group of dedicated professionals as they begin their careers as Corrections Officers,” Commissioner Helen Hanks said. “I am confident that each of the graduates will carry out their duties with integrity and I appreciate their dedication to ensuring the safety of our community, and aiding in the rehabilitation of the individuals we supervise.”
The Department of Corrections is recruiting corrections officers and other correctional line staff. More information is available online at https://www.jobs.corrections.nh.gov. Questions can be directed to the Recruitment Office at (603) 271-5645 or by emailing [email protected].
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