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On Saturday May 11th, 2024, the Lee County Sheriff's Office hosted the first ever "Lee County Junior Deputy Academy" at the Lee County Law Enforcement Center. Parents from all over the county signed their children up to attend the event, which was open to 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade students.

 

The Lee County Junior Deputy Academy was created by Sheriff Durrenberger for children who have an avid interest in Law Enforcement and are eager to learn more from the deputies who work in their community.

 

The academy provided a basic understanding of what deputies do through educational hands-on activities and experiences, along with classroom presentations. The program focuses on the Lee County Sheriff's Office core values which are Courtesy, Honesty, Integrity, and Purpose; encouraging each participant to continue to practice these values long after they graduate from the program.

 

The program consisted of a full eight-hour day at the Law Enforcement Center. The children learned about basic first-aid, cyber safety, stranger danger, bully prevention, physical fitness, patrol functions, and mock tactical operations.

 

Highlights of the day included a mock crime scene, where the junior deputies had to apply their knowledge to investigate an outdoor scene and identify the suspect. Texas DPS was generous in flying one of their helicopters for the children to see; and Giddings Police brought the Lee County Rescue Vehicle over for tours as well.

 

A hamburger lunch was provided courtesy of Outlaws BBQ and City Meat Market. After lunch, the kids enjoyed a physical fitness course designed by Deputies.

 

The graduation ceremony was held at the end of the day, with parents, grandparents, and friends in attendance. The Junior Deputies recited their oath of office and received their metal badge and certificate from Sheriff Durrenberger.

 

"Our goal is to engage and stay connected with the citizens of Lee County, which obviously includes our youth. If we can give them the tools to stay safe and foster a positive relationship, then we will be successful."

 

"I credit the compassion and dedication of my employees for the success of this event. They ran with my vision and made it better than I could imagine. I would also like to thank the following for their assistance: Constable Steven Pohorelsky, Constable AJ Gonzales, Texas DPS, Giddings Police Department, Outlaws BBQ, City Meat Market, and Bluebonnet Electric."

 

"We couldn't have pulled this off without the support of our public service agency partners and our sponsors. I plan to host this as an annual event, and fully expect it to grow each year."

 

 

Garrett Durrenberger

Sheriff, Lee County