Summer camp is back at the Jones County Sheriff’s Office, and it is safe to say a good time was had by all, including campers and staff.
The JCSO “Cop Camp,” as the kids called it, started June 11 and ended June 14. Each day was filled with activities that were fun, but most were also educational. The 40 campers were divided into two groups by ages with one group ages 8-10 and the second 11–13.
The days began with breakfast at 8 a.m. and ended at 3:30 p.m. The campers toured the Law Enforcement Center the first day. The week’s activities included classes to learn about firearm and internet safety, crime scene processing, fingerprinting, DUI awareness, metal detecting, body cameras, self-defense, search and rescue, drone search, project lifesaver, a visit from the GSP helicopter and a mock trial, all interspersed with fun and games, starting and ending with an afternoon of water slides and snow cones.
The camp was supported by local restaurants Dairy Queen, Chevy’s Pizza and Jack’s with refreshments also from Sno Biz and Kona Ice.
Sheriff Butch Reece said he was glad they could have the camp again after having to pause it due to COVID.
“It’s good for the kids and good for the officers to be able to showcase what they do every day,” he said.
Reece said at the end of the week, each camper got a certificate and a JCSO Challenge Coin. He said they are already planning for next year.
The sheriff said he feels like events that bring together the public and law enforcement are important.
“We do things like summer camp, Touch-a-Truck and the Sheriff’s Salute to make sure people know we are part of the community,” he said.
