"Training is the engine that pulls the train."

The Training Section is responsible for the developing, administering, and record keeping for all agency members training. This also includes the management of both Law Enforcement and Corrections Field Training and Evaluation Programs. The Training Section additionally develops and administers special training programs for civilians, public awareness, and specialty programs that require development and presentation. The Training Section works with local colleges and universities to develop and enhance training and education at the Sheriff's Office.

In 1993 the Charlotte County Sheriff's Office was the first agency in the nation to utilize the LETN (Law Enforcement Television Network) and STTAR (Standard Training Testing And Recording) CBT system. The agency remains the longest user of this system in the nation today.

Florida requires all certified law enforcement and certified corrections officers to meet mandatory retraining requirements as a condition of continued employment. (FSS 943.135) The Training Section schedules, administers, tracks and reports this training to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) and the Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission (CJSTC). These statutory requirements are continually audited by FDLE to insure compliance. For further information about law enforcement training requirements, you can visit the FDLE website.

The Training Section is committed to excellence and provides contemporary training to all members of the agency. Instructors are required to maintain many certifications and they are continuously looking for ways to improve training.

Contact Information

Lt. Mark Bala
Training Section Commander
7474 Utilities Road
Punta Gorda FL 33982
(941) 833-6281
training@ccso.org