Three Forks Voice - Connect With Your Community!

The upcoming Public Safety Academy will allow area residents to learn a little more about the Gallatin County Sheriff's Office.

The academy is open to all county residents over 18, is free of charge, and will run for eight to ten weeks in spring or early summer.

According to Captain Eric Paulson, the academy covers everything from recruitment, hiring, training, communications, patrol tactics, patrol investigations, long-term investigations, K9s, Search & Rescue, and special weapons and tactics. Those who participate can also sign up for a ride along with a GCSO Deputy and sit beside a 911 dispatcher.

Paulsen said it is extremely rewarding to interact with the community during the academy.

GCSO Photo

"Any opportunity to build trust within our community, for any amount of time, is a blessing. Time spent with a diverse group from our community for 8-10 weeks creates an open dialogue in s a safe space, educates, develops understanding, and builds trust," he said.

Those interested in signing up for the academy, which includes one weekly three-hour session, should contact Paulson at [email protected] or 406-582-3606. Area residents will be placed on a first-come, first-serve basis.

"Sheriff Springer and members of the Gallatin County Sheriff's Office look forward to this opportunity. It is an honor to serve our community. The Public Safety Academy provides a platform that allows the Gallatin County Sheriff's Office to share our mission and vision while demonstrating our values," Paulson said.