Sheriff-Elect completes leadership training.

Oceana County Sheriff-Elect Craig Mast

Sheriff-Elect completes leadership training.

#OceanaCountyNews

HART — Oceana County Sheriff-Elect Craig Mast recently completed a two-week training program designed for newly-elected sheriffs sponsored by the Michigan Sheriffs’ Association (MSA).

Sheriff-Elect Mast, who will officially take office Jan. 1, 2017, satisfied all requirements and earned a certificate of completion. “The New Sheriffs’ Leadership Institute consists of two weeks of highly-intensive training,” said MSA CEO/Executive Director Terrence L. Jungel. “Graduation from the school proves Sheriff-Elect Mast is dedicated to protecting the citizens of Oceana County and the Office of the Sheriff.”

The New Sheriffs’ Leadership Institute, which was in Lansing Dec. 5-16, was completely funded through grants and sponsorships. The Gerstacker Foundation, the John Reder Endowment Fund and the Michigan Municipal Risk Management Association all provided grant funds to the program.

A few of the topics addressed were: The Role of Sheriff; Secondary Road Patrol; Corrections; Crime Victims’ Rights; Mental Health; Preparing a Budget; The Role of the Undersheriff; Media Relations; Internal Investigations; and Line of Duty Death. Training was provided by current and retired sheriffs who are nationally-recognized experts on the subjects they presented. The sheriffs also served as mentors for the sheriffs-elect, offering advice and sharing their experiences. “The most effective weapon we have in our arsenal is knowledge,” said Jungel. “Our goal was to prepare these elected sheriffs for the issues they will face in their new position. Successful sheriffs make our communities safer.”

The MSA is the oldest law enforcement organization in Michigan. MSA’s mission is to ensure the safety and security of Michigan citizens by assisting elected sheriffs and their personnel in the development of resources and skills through education and training. For more information about MSA or to support its mission by becoming a citizen member, visit www.misheriff.org.