I think in today’s time, we lack leadership within our community. This is your sheriff’s office and we wanted to provide you with a unique, transparent look at what we do in law enforcement and who we are.”Cullman County Sheriff Matt Gentry
CULLMAN — On Tuesday, October 27, the Sheriff’s Citizen Academy concluded its eight-week program with a graduation ceremony at Cullman City Hall. Cullman County Sheriff Matt Gentry, along with his deputies and office personnel, helped celebrate the event.
The night’s guest speaker was Shelby County Sheriff John Samaniego. Samaniego commended Gentry and the Sheriff's Department for keeping Cullman County citizens safe.
“I want to tell each and every one of you thank you for stepping up and being a leader in our community,” said Gentry.
“I think in today’s time, we lack leadership within our community. This is your sheriff’s office and we wanted to provide you with a unique, transparent look at what we do in law enforcement and who we are. I want to thank you for being a part of that.”
The Sheriff’s Citizen Academy gives Cullman County citizens an opportunity to learn about law enforcement's role in the community and how they strive to make the area safe.
The inaugural program produced 65 graduates.
“Tonight was the graduation from the Sheriff's Citizen Academy,” said Cindy Stricklin, student. “I will miss it and the friends I made. It was so much fun. Everyone should get to be a part of this experience. I appreciate our wonderful Sheriff Matt Gentry and his deputies and staff – Matt Hogue, Brett Holmes, Bradley Williams, Mark Persall, Ricky Blackwood, Jeff Clemmons, and Randall Chambers to name a few,” she smiled.
“I also want to thank Deputy Trevor Clemmons and Deputy Justin Bates for letting me ride with them on patrol.”
“I am so proud of my wife for completing the first Citizen Academy conducted by the Cullman County Sheriff’s Office,” said Jeremy Brothers.
“She had such an amazing time and was able to gain firsthand knowledge and experience from some the best instructors and professionals in law enforcement. Thank you Sheriff Matt Gentry and all who had a role in bringing this training to fruition. It was awesome!” she said.
For Gentry, the program had a bittersweet conclusion.
“What I’m going to miss as we go is the nights we get to spend together every week. I’ll miss that, but I value the friendships we have bonded over the weeks,” he smiled.
The first Sheriff’s Citizen Academy created a genuine camaraderie between the Sheriff’s Department and its students.
A second Sheriff’s Citizen Academy is planned for sometime after the new year.
