PRINCE FREDERICK, MD – The Calvert County Sheriff’s Office has been awarded a training grant from the Local Government Insurance Trust (LGIT) to support enhanced Emergency Vehicle Operations In-Service training for all deputies. The grant will fully cover the costs of implementing this crucial training program, designed to reduce the risks associated with motor vehicle collisions.
The Sheriff’s Office has launched an agency-wide, eight-hour course focused on emergency vehicle operations, developed in collaboration with the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC). This initiative comes in response to a growing need to mitigate the risks of officer injuries and fatalities that occur during vehicle operations. The program will train deputies in techniques and practices that help minimize preventable accidents, with the ultimate goal of improving both officer and public safety.
Calvert County commissioners have shown their support for the initiative. Commissioner President Earl F. “Buddy” Hance emphasized the importance of proper training for law enforcement officers. Commissioner Vice President Catherine Grasso also praised the partnership with FLETC, noting that the collaboration ensures that the Sheriff’s Office is following the best practices in emergency vehicle operation.
The training, which is mandatory for all deputies, is expected to address common challenges officers face while driving in high-pressure situations, such as high-speed pursuits or navigating through congested traffic. These types of scenarios can lead to heightened risk, and the specialized course aims to ensure deputies are better prepared to handle them safely and effectively.
In addition to Sheriff Cox and Commissioner Hance, several other local officials have been involved in supporting the grant and the subsequent training efforts. These include Commissioner Mike Hart, Commissioner Todd Ireland, Commissioner Mark Cox Sr., and Ellen Simpson. Lt. Robert Selkirk, Lt. Thomas Tilley, Matthew Peter, Lt. Jason Dean, and Lt. Eric Basham are also key figures within the Sheriff’s Office involved in the program’s implementation.
The grant-funded program is part of a broader push within law enforcement to address safety concerns related to vehicle operations. According to data from the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, motor vehicle-related incidents have consistently been one of the leading causes of death among officers. By offering comprehensive training to deputies, the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office aims to reduce these numbers and enhance operational safety across the board.
The Local Government Insurance Trust, which provides the funding for this initiative, is known for offering risk management solutions and training grants to local government agencies in Maryland. The support from LGIT underscores the trust’s commitment to fostering safer communities by investing in preventive measures that reduce risks for public servants.
Training is already underway, with deputies from various divisions participating. Lt. Robert Selkirk, one of the program’s key instructors, highlighted the course’s practical focus.
As the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office moves forward with this training initiative, they remain committed to improving safety for both law enforcement officers and the broader community they serve. The partnership with LGIT and FLETC marks an important step in that direction, ensuring that deputies are better equipped to handle the challenges they face on the road.
