Head of Police Academy follows the Golden Rule

Brian DeCuir, the Director of the COS Public Safety Department is a firm believer of the Golden Rule.

"Treat people the way you would like to be treated and you will be a success in serving others," said DeCuir.

DeCuir states that having empathy for people is important when you're a police officer. He feels it is important to treat everyone with respect and dignity.

In October 1972, DeCuir began work as a police officer with the Hanford City Police Department. He worked through the ranks, including sergeant, lieutenant, and commander and was promoted to Chief of Police in 1989. In 2003 DeCuir retired with the Hanford Police Department after 31 years of service.

Before becoming the Director of Public Safety Training, DuCuir earned an AS of Science Degree at Rio Hondo Community College. DeCuir said that he wasn't the greatest student in high school, but his experience at Rio Hondo got him very interested in Police Science. He later received a Bachelor of Science Degree in criminology from Fresno State while working as a police officer.

"I've always enjoyed being a student and I really enjoyed going to Fresno State," said DeCuir.

The COS Police Academy started in the fall of 1973. DeCuir was a graduate of the first class.

"Who would've guessed that I would be a part of the first class and then go on to become the Head of the Police Academy?" said DeCuir.

Now, DeCuir is the Head of the Department of Public Safety Training. They offer courses in Fire Science, Law Enforcement, and Corrections. If a student chooses to enroll in the Law Enforcement program, they must fill out an application and take a test. The maximum enrollment per session is 60 students.

Applicants are ranked by their test scores and are admitted from the top of the list. Once enrolled, students will start training. Training areas include academics, physical fitness, firearms, and weaponless defense.

The majority of the time is spent in the classroom, where among other things, students learn about various scenarios they might encounter while on patrol.

DeCuir reflects on his time spent as a police officer:"You can really impact people's lives in a positive manner with every citizen contact."