Government is adding 23 new deputy sheriffs, who start work next week in communities across the province.

The sheriffs received their badges at the Justice Institute of British Columbia today after four months of intensive training, including use-of-force techniques and firearms use. The recruits learned the skills necessary for courthouse and courtroom security, jury management, and the escort of those in custody to and from court, correctional centres and police lock-up facilities.

Once deployed, they will provide safety and security for the courthouses and those who use them, including judges, court workers, legal professionals and the public.

The sheriff recruits will be deployed to courthouses throughout the Lower Mainland, Victoria, Fort St. John, Prince George, Port Alberni, Oliver and Kamloops. They join a team of more than 450 sheriffs serving throughout the province.

Quotes:

Attorney General and Minister of Justice Suzanne Anton –

“As Attorney General, and on behalf of the Ministry of Justice, I commend the accomplishments of today’s graduates and the dedicated service they will provide to the citizens of B.C. The security of our courthouses and the safety of those who use them are of paramount importance to our government, and sheriffs play a vital role in our justice system and ensuring it operates safely and effectively.”

Chief Sheriff Paul Corrado –

“Congratulations to the new recruits who are joining the B.C. Sheriff Services, an organization with more than 150 years of devoted service to the province. I look forward to working with you in your new careers. Welcome to the team.”

Quick Facts:

• BC Sheriff Services is part of Court Services Branch and has about 500 staff with a budget of over $40 million.
• Sheriffs have responsibility to:
  • Co-ordinate safe and timely in-custody accused appearances.
  • Liaise with court users, the judiciary, members of the bar, prosecutors and other law enforcement agencies.
  • Enforce court orders and service of civil and family documents and warrants.
• Other sheriff services include:
  • Escort of prisoners by ground and air to and from court appearances, police lock-ups and correctional facilities.
  • Safety and security in courthouses and in courthouse holding cell areas.
  • Summons of jurors and assistance with the Supreme Court jury process, and
  • Assistance with coroners court.
• Sheriff Services operates an Intelligence and Threat Assessment Unit that liaises with local, provincial and federal law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety and security of court facilities and court users.

Learn More:

Ministry of Justice, B.C. Sheriff Services: http://www.ag.gov.bc.ca/courts/sheriffs/

Justice Institute of B.C. Sheriff Academy: http://www.jibc.ca/programs-courses/schools-departments/school-criminal-justice-security/sheriff-academy

For photos of Anton meeting with deputy sheriff graduates, visit: https://flic.kr/p/Md19Qs