NEW WESTMINSTER – The latest class of B.C. sheriff recruits has graduated from the Justice Institute of British Columbia (JIBC) in New Westminster.
The newest recruits will be posted in Prince George, Williams Lake, Fort St. John, Terrace, Nelson and on the Lower Mainland.
"Sheriffs play a critical role in our justice system, ensuring the safety of everyone who steps foot in a courthouse. Congratulations to the new recruits, and thank you for your hard work over the last several months," said David Eby, Attorney General. "I commend you for your perseverance and wish you well on your work providing an essential service to British Columbians."
On Oct. 29, 2021, 21 sheriffs from two classes celebrated completing their training, including one group whose ceremony was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This means five classes have now graduated since the start of the pandemic.
With limited class enrolment to meet public safety guidelines, recruits completed an intensive 14-week training program. Recruits, instructors, JIBC facility staff and BC Sheriff Service members all worked together to ensure a safe training environment.
Sheriffs serve throughout British Columbia and are responsible for carrying out orders of the court. They also provide protection and enforcement duties to ensure the safety of all court users, including the judiciary, the legal profession, other justice-related agencies, court staff and members of the public.
The BC Sheriff Service is recognized as an international leader in providing protective and enforcement services for the justice system. The recruit training program is recognized by JIBC as a post-secondary certificate program. The next class of sheriffs is expected to graduate in March 2022.
Quotes:
Jenny Manton, assistant deputy minister and director of sheriffs –
"The determination of the sheriff recruits to complete their rigorous training regime despite the COVID-19 restrictions was impressive. I congratulate them on a job well done and celebrate this momentous day as they join the proud tradition of the BC Sheriff Service."
Paul Corrado, chief sheriff and executive director, BC Sheriff Service –
"Congratulations to our new deputy sheriffs and their families. I know they are eager to start their assignments across the province and put their training into practice. Their contributions to the justice system are welcome."
Michel Tarko, JIBC president and CEO –
"JIBC is proud of the role it plays in educating and training British Columbia's sheriff recruits to help keep the province's courthouses safe and its ability to adapt to COVID-19 safety restrictions. Congratulations to our graduating deputy sheriffs for successfully completing the rigorous sheriff recruit training program amid the added challenges brought on by the pandemic. All the best to you as you set off on your fulfilling new careers in law enforcement."
Quick Facts:
- The BC Sheriff Service is the oldest Law Enforcement agency in the province, serving B.C. since 1857.
- The BC Sheriff Service is one of the founding members of JIBC.
Learn More:
To find out more about the role and sheriff career opportunities:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/careers-myhr/job-seekers/featured-careers/deputy-sheriff
Contact:
Ministry of Attorney General
Media Relations
778 678-1572