Honorary Deputy Gets Ahead of the Game Before Graduation
Figuring It Out
"What do you want to be when you grow up?" A question we hear all the time when we were little; something we never really think about until the day comes and we are walking across the stage. As many Victorian graduates began to put on their cap and gowns and march across the stage, it's something they will begin to ponder. Many will have no clue, and that's okay; sometimes you need to live life and learn along the way, but some students have figured it out early on.
Getting Ahead of the Game
One student by the name of Miguel Ramos got ahead of the game. Inducted as an honorary Deputy at a young age, Miguel's interest in law enforcement had him taking matters into his own hands during his early high school years. When he was only 15 years old, he reached out to the Sheriff's Office and got someone on one-on-one experience.
The city has an explorer program, but the Sheriff's Office has the civilian rider program. Traditionally you have to be 18 to get involved and take part in the Sheriffs program. Miguel's case was because he was only 15 when he began to get involved with the Sheriff's Office.
What Type of Experiences Are To Be Expected?
Miguel Ramos shared some of his experiences with the Sheriff's Office. "One of the very first things was k9 training, how they patrol with k9, and what they look for." Sergeant Boyd at the Sherriffs Office remembers Miguels visits and recalls taking him to the range, letting him wear swat gear. Sergeant Boyd explained that civilians could do ride alongs up to four times a year. The process is pretty simple; he said you need to submit paperwork, do a background check and express your interest. "They will either approve or disapprove; depending on your background, they will let you ride, certain arrests will eliminate you from riding, but it just depends," Sergeant Boyd explained.
Are there programs to transition from high school to higher education?
At 18, you can be a certified jailer through the state. You can become a jailer; the sheriff's office can invest in those who become eligible for a peace officer license. The sheriff's office does pay for a jailer's course you need to take. Victoria College offers a five-month Police Academy. This is something that interests Miguel Ramos. When asked about his long-term goals, he replied, "I am hoping to get sponsored to be on patrol; they will actually pay for you to go to the [Police] Academy." he added, "right now since I can't go patrol on the road at 18 im going to start in the jail and work my way up."
Advice For Those Thinking About a Career in Law Enforcement
Coming from a man who did his time at the Academy back in 2006 and has been at the Victoria County Sheriff's Office since 2010, Sergeant Boyd has a few words for somebody who is dabbling with the idea of having a career in law enforcement. "Basically, if it's something somebody's interested in, ride with us, get some experience and exposure; the sheriff office has a variety of fields. Just come out and see what the sheriff's office has to offer. "
Interested In a Career In Law Enforcement?
If you are interested in a career in law enforcement, reach out to the Victora County Sherriff Office or Victoria College to find out more information about their law enforcement program and criminal justice courses.