The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Montana Patrol Station (MPS) conducted its “A Day in the Life of” event on October 18, 2024, as a segment of the “Mentoring Our Future Program.” This program is dedicated to establishing strong mentorship ties with students from local criminal justice programs.
During this enriching event, detectives and deputies from the MPS Criminal Investigations Targeted Response Unit (CITRU) hosted fifteen students from the Mountain View High School Law Enforcement Program. The students were given a comprehensive tour of the Montana Patrol Station and participated in practical training sessions. These sessions detailed the daily duties and responsibilities that deputies, detectives, sergeants, and lieutenants undertake.
In addition to learning about law enforcement routines, the students enjoyed a visit to the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Region VIII Training Academy. Here, they met with academy instructors and explored a typical day for a cadet, including the traditions and legacies of respected figures such as Sgt. Ruben Orozco and Deputy Peter John Herrera.
The day also featured an interactive experience at the EPSO Fire Range. The students met USPSA National Shooting Champion and Fire Range Instructor Justin Martinez and engaged in a critical incident simulator. This exercise provided them with valuable insights into officer safety, de-escalation techniques, and the use of force continuum.
The El Paso County Sheriff’s Officers Association supported the event by providing pizzas, drinks, and snacks, contributing to a welcoming and educational environment. This initiative is part of the MPS’s ongoing efforts to strengthen community ties, enhance youth engagement, and foster the development of future law enforcement professionals.
Image Credit El Paso County Sheriff’s Office – EPCSO
