Union County Sheriff’s Deputies Complete Advanced Active Shooter Training

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga. — Four Union County Sheriff’s Office deputies have been honored for their dedication to public safety after completing a rigorous four-day Active Shooter training course at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) in either Charleston, South Carolina, or Glynco, Georgia.

Deputies Vonya Baldwin, Matthew Phillips, Zachary Rhoden, and Autumn Rogers participated in the specialized program, designed to equip law enforcement with the skills needed to respond to active shooter situations. The training featured realistic scenarios with role players, simulating real-world conditions to prepare deputies for potential threats. The course provided hands-on experience, focusing on critical response techniques and principles.

“This practical, reality-based training not only teaches our deputies the concepts and principles but allows them to get hands-on experience working through what they may face in a situation such as this,” the Union County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement.

The training was conducted at no additional cost to Union County taxpayers, with FLETC covering lodging and meals for the deputies.

The sheriff’s office underscored its commitment to ensuring deputies are well-prepared to protect the community, particularly in high-risk scenarios involving schools or public spaces.

“We hope our deputies will never have to utilize these skills, but we want our community to know that if we ever do, your Sheriff’s Office will be prepared to answer the call and will work quickly to neutralize any threats against our children or community members,” the statement continued.

The sheriff’s office noted that most of its deputies have now completed active shooter response training at either the state or federal level, bolstering the department’s readiness.

The four deputies were praised for their commitment to excellence, with the sheriff’s office extending congratulations for their successful completion of the intensive program.