(COLUMBIA, SC) - Four Forestry Commission officers recently graduated from the SC Criminal Justice Academy. Officers Steve Ward and Barry Farrell are assigned to Manchester State Forest, Supervisor Brandon Craig works Florence and Dillon Counties, and Supervisor Kip Terry serves Aiken and Barnwell Counties.

During the nine-week course, the officers received practical instruction in firearms, pursuit driving, defensive tactics, and physical fitness. Academic training included study of criminal law, search and seizure, and arrest procedures.

The Forestry Commission has about 50 law enforcement officers statewide. In addition to law enforcement, officers have forest firefighting and timber management responsibilities in their assigned areas.

For more information, contact: Ken Cabe, 803-896-8820.