Fifteen law enforcement students graduated Friday from basic jail officer training at the Effingham County Sheriff's Office. This was the first in-house jail officer school hosted by ECSO.

The new officers received their certificates from Sheriff Jimmy McDuffie during the ceremony. Most students are Effingham County Sheriff's Office employees but some are from surrounding counties.

"The 80-hour course trains students on defensive tactics, emergency medical skills and inmate rights, as well as professionalism and ethics," said Effingham County Sheriff's Jail Administrator Capt. Brian Barrs.

In order to graduate the program, participants were evaluated on moral character, ability to handle stress and adversity, work habits, interpersonal skills and problem-solving.

"I am proud of each and every one of these graduates for their hard work and dedication," McDuffie said. "We will continue to provide additional training at our office for both our employees and those in surrounding counties."