D.A.R.E. Officer Graduation

(Pierre) –The South Dakota Law Enforcement Academy graduated 29 D.A.R.E. officers from across  South Dakota, North Dakota and Iowa today.

All D.A.R.E. officers in South Dakota must complete a two week, 80 hour program.  The curriculum encompasses education, techniques, and specific course work.

Upon completion of the training, students are certified as D.A.R.E. officers in South Dakota. This qualifies them to teach drug abuse resistance in elementary schools.

 “These officers go into our schools and provide positive role models for the children,” said Chief Deputy Attorney General Larry Long. “Their effort makes a big difference.” Long was the keynote speaker at the graduation.

Justin Paul of the Bettendorf, Iowa Police Force received the overall outstanding officer award.

David Moore, Meade County Sheriff’s Office; Rebecca Thompson; Brookings Police Department; Mathew Bryl, Rapid City Police Department; Christopher Hanson, Rapid City Police Department; and Nicholle Noeldner, Watertown Police Department were selected as outstanding team members.

Trent Pettis of the Rapid City Police Department received the Spirit of D.A.R.E award.

The D.A.R.E. training program is directed by the South Dakota Law Enforcement Training Academy under the Office of the Attorney General.

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