Constables looking to receive state-mandated training will have the chance starting next week.

Ken Potter, Carter County constable and lead instructor for the course, announced the annual Tennessee Constables Association’s annual in-service program gets underway Monday, June 11, at Carter County Emergency Resource Squad’s main office. The event is scheduled to last until June 22 from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. each evening.

Potter added the classes allow constables to fulfill their mandatory 40 hours of training needed by state before taking office. Training exercises are open to all constables and law enforcement personnel. TCA members can attend the event for $20 while non-TCA members can attend for $50.

“We’re able to offer all the necessary training for constables that will be taking office,” Potter said.

Potter added that several law enforcement officials are lending their time to the program. Notables that will be offering educational opportunities include Jerry Stout with Homeland Security, local attorney Jim Bowman, former Unicoi County Sheriff Kent Harris and representation from the Tennessee Highway Patrol. All current laws will be discussed during the event and studied. Firearms training will also be offered through the multi-day affair.

Attendees will be presented a certification at the conclusion of the event.

Constables are elected law enforcement officers that volunteer their time and have the same authority to arrest under state law just like a city or county police department.

“For the incoming constables, we encourage them to attend this event to meet their requirement for hours,” Potter added. “This class will be held in June and newly-elected constables will take office in September.”

Potter added that last year’s in-service showcased success with several from the state stopping by to utilize the resources offered.

“We want to do what we can to help the public and make sure all constables have fulfilled the necessary training to help citizens, and themselves,” Potter said.

The training portion is something that’s been a joy to see for Rep. Timothy Hill.

Hill, who recently stopped by the Elizabethton Star office, helped anchor legislation that was recently signed by Gov. Bill Haslam to ensure constables could receive 40 hours of training.

“Very few groups are willing to go out of their way to better themselves. It really speaks to everyone involved with the Tennessee Constables Association,” Hill said about supporting the legislation. “It has been across the state, but Northeast Tennessee has really helped lead the way into making sure constables are better trained and stay up to date with laws.”

To register, individuals can either contact a member of the TCA or call Potter at (423) 341-1709. Registration will also be available the day of the event.