Last night, the Union County Sheriff's Office celebrated the latest cohort of detention officer graduates, marking a significant moment for the individuals embarking on their careers and the community they'll serve. According to the Union County Sheriff’s Office website, the class #2501 commenced in March and included 11 students from UCSO and the Stanly County Sheriff's Office who underwent a vigorous five-week, 174-hour Detention Officer Certification Course (DOCC) at the UCSO Detention Center. The coursework, reflective of the real-life responsibilities expected of a detention officer, culminated successfully with all eleven students passing their state exams.
"Sheriff Eddie Cathey addressed the graduates and their families, congratulating them on their achievement and thanking them for their service," reported the Union County Sheriff’s Office. At the ceremony held at the sheriff's Administration Building, each graduate was awarded a certificate of completion, symbolizing both closure of their training and the beginning of a new journey in law enforcement. Lieutenant Matt Winfrey, delivering an inspiring School Director address, urged graduates to not only continue but to strive embodying the values of discipline, teamwork, and integrity in their day-to-day service.
Two of the graduates were notably honored for their exceptional performances during the training. Deputy Matthew La Sala earned recognition for the highest score on the final state exam, while Officer Yaniris Perez received the Most Improved Physical Training Award, denoting her outstanding improvement in physical fitness. Additionally, Sgt. Ashley Fultz was voted by the students to receive the Top Instructor Award, a testament to her impact and excellence in teaching the aspiring officers.
The ceremony served as an acknowledgment of the graduates' dedication birthed from weeks of intensive training and their potential to positively influence the Union and Stanly communities. "Congratulations to all the graduates of DOCC Class #2501. We are proud of your accomplishments and look forward to the impact you will make in our communities," the Union County Sheriff's Office publicly declared.
