Olive Branch Citizens’ Police Academy holds Week 4 session

The Olive Branch Police Department’s Citizens’ Police Academy continued with a Week 4 session featuring demonstrations and presentations on the department’s K-9 division, drones, SWAT team and firearms safety. The session was held last Thursday in Olive Branch.

The evening began with biographies of Deputy Chief Joshua Mucciarone and Capt. Bryce Wardlaw. The K-9 portion included Sgt. Andrew White and K-9 Baka, Sgt. Michael Murphy and K-9 Yarko, Officer Mitchell Fulce and K-9 Riki, and Officer Jared Lancaster and K-9 Tony.

Handlers discussed the role of the dogs and described them as members of their families as well as working partners. A demonstration followed the introductions.

Detective Josh Ford led the drone presentation, explaining the role drones play across the department’s divisions and how aerial views can help officers assess what they are approaching.

The SWAT presentation focused on the team’s responsibilities, the danger involved in entering unknown situations and the commitment among team members. The academy also included a firearms safety presentation.

Lenny’s provided dinner for the class, according to the department. The post ended with an invitation for participants to meet at the range and identified the City of Olive Branch Government and Mayor Ken Adams.

Source: Olive Branch Police Department.