Future Sheriff’s Protective Services Officers gear up for graduation and field training
As Sheriff’s Protective Services Officer (SPSO) Academy Class #4 enters its final weeks, 11 recruits are preparing to graduate on June 12, 2025, following an intensive seven-week program designed to prepare civilian uniformed security personnel for duty.
These future officers will be responsible for observing and reporting suspicious activity and assisting sworn peace officers at Santa Clara County facilities.
During the program, recruits undergo comprehensive instruction in more than 30 core subject areas, including:
- Strategic Communications
- Mental Health Awareness
- Active Shooter Response
- Cultural Diversity and Discrimination
- Defensive Tactics and De-escalation
- Laws of Arrest and Search & Seizure
- Community Policing
- Crisis Response and Report Writing
Additional training covers legal topics, emergency preparedness, and the ethical responsibilities of public safety professionals. Recruits are also trained in CPR/First Aid, the proper use of radios and body-worn cameras, and techniques for handling narcotics-related incidents and crowd control.
Following graduation, Academy Class #4 will begin the Field Training Program at Valley Medical Center (VMC). This next phase bridges the gap between classroom learning and the real-world demands of uniformed service. New SPSOs will work alongside experienced officers, respond to active calls for service, and gain crucial hands-on experience.
This field training allows graduates to apply communication and de-escalation techniques, demonstrate knowledge of policies and procedures, and receive daily performance feedback from their Field Training Officers.
Captain Jason Brown, who leads the Protective Services Division, praised the recruits’ dedication and emphasized the growing need for skilled security professionals.
"Our SPSOs are valued members of the Sheriff's Office family and we are excited to welcome new officers committed to public service to our team,” said Brown. “The Protective Services Division is in the midst of rapid growth as we expand our services throughout Santa Clara County."
The Sheriff’s Office remains committed to preparing and supporting the next generation of Protective Services Officers, who play a vital role in safeguarding public spaces and ensuring community safety.