The Charles County Sheriff’s Office has announced the graduation of 10 correctional officers from the Southern Maryland Criminal Justice Academy’s (SMCJA) Corrections Entrance Level Training Program (CELTP), Session 72. Among the graduates, two correctional officers represent the Charles County Detention Center. The graduation ceremony took place on October 4, marking the culmination of the officers’ completion of an 11-week Basic Corrections Academy program, which exceeds the state’s minimum training requirements for correctional officers employed at local correctional facilities throughout Maryland.
Sheriff Troy D. Berry expressed pride in the new officers, stating, “Congratulations to these two outstanding individuals on their graduation from correctional officer training; we are proud to welcome them to our agency, where they will make a significant impact in serving our community.”
The intensive training program equips graduates with the skills necessary to manage and operate within correctional facilities, emphasizing the critical nature of their work in maintaining public safety. The Charles County Detention Center was represented by two new graduates, Correctional Officers Antonio L. Green and Johnathan T. Johnson. Both officers are now fully trained and ready to begin their careers serving the Charles County community.
Charles County Detention Center Director Ryan Ross also expressed his gratitude for the graduates’ commitment to the field of corrections. “We extend our heartfelt congratulations to each of these officers and their families on completing the academy. Their commitment to this profession is commendable, and we are truly proud of their decision to serve. We also want to express our gratitude to our exceptional Academy Staff for their dedication in training and preparing these officers for what promises to be a challenging yet rewarding career,” Ross said.
The graduation ceremony highlighted the accomplishments of several graduates who excelled during their training. Among the honorees was Antonio L. Green of Charles County, who earned the Scholastic Achievement Award with an impressive 96.29% GPA. Johnathan T. Johnson, also from Charles County, was chosen as the Class Speaker, representing his fellow graduates during the ceremony. These accolades further emphasize the dedication and hard work of the Charles County graduates as they prepare to serve in correctional roles.
The Southern Maryland Criminal Justice Academy plays a pivotal role in training correctional officers for counties across the region, including Calvert County and St. Mary’s County. The successful completion of the CELTP by these officers is not only a personal achievement but also a significant contribution to the safety and security of their respective communities.
The Charles County Sheriff’s Office continues to seek individuals who are committed to a career in corrections, offering competitive incentives for those considering joining the field. Currently, the Charles County Detention Center is offering a $10,000 sign-on bonus, $5,000 in relocation assistance, and a streamlined training process for out-of-state lateral officers who meet the necessary criteria. Interested candidates can find more information about becoming a correctional officer by visiting the Sheriff’s Office website at www.ccso.us.
As the new officers begin their service, the Charles County Sheriff’s Office is confident they will make a positive impact on the community. Sheriff Berry, Director Ross, and the entire Sheriff’s Office team extend their congratulations and best wishes for long and distinguished careers to the graduates.
For more information on career opportunities with the Charles County Sheriff’s Office or the Charles County Detention Center, visit CCSO Career Opportunities.
