Hiawassee, GA – The seventh session of the Citizen Law Enforcement Academy (CLEA), sponsored by the Towns County Sheriff’s Office, began on Tuesday, July 25, at McConnell Baptist Church on Main Street in Hiawassee. CLEA is a ten week course designed to familiarize the community with the operations of the Sheriff’s Office.

The meeting began with opening remarks by the Lead Pastor of McConnell Baptist, Steven Taylor, who asked to address the group. “We’re grateful for the Sheriff’s Office and all they do. We wanted to be a part of it. We look forward to serving again in the future.”

The initial class focused on Sheriff Chris Clinton’s presentation on the history of the Office of the Sheriff. “It’s the oldest elected office of any kind.”, the Sheriff told the participants. Clinton covered the full scope of the position’s antiquity which included knowledge of 1215 AD, the year the people rose against the dictatorial King John of England. He explained how the Sheriff stood up for the citizens.

“I answer to the people.”, the Sheriff expressed. “I work for you.”

Sheriff Clinton went on to provide insight on the U.S. Constitution, the Declaration of Independence and the Bill of Rights. He cited issues that led to their establishment and how they still apply today. “The Founders knew it was the people themselves who mattered…We, the people, are the kings in America.”

Colonel Terry Conner, Captain Jim Coach, and Lieutenant Aaron Deyton of the Towns County Sheriff’s Office attended Tuesday’s meeting. David Marrella, a CLEA graduate, was on hand to assist the new students.

CLEA meets weekly until graduation commences on September 26. Classes require admission through the Towns County Sheriff’s Office. Alumni are permitted to volunteer their time for suitable tasks such as administrative duties upon completion of the 20 hour course. This in turn lowers the cost of operation for county’s taxpayers.

The next session is expected to begin in late fall. Applications are available by contacting the Towns County Sheriff’s Office at 706.896.4444

Follow Fetch Your News for future updates on this community program.