Workplace violence and mass shootings have unfortunately become more common in recent years. Because of the need for greater awareness about responding to such threats, local law enforcement is taking responsibility for educating the public.

Recently, a trio of officers from Georgia Southwestern State University Campus Police and Safety visited the campus of Perry Wellness Center to provide an “active shooter” presentation. Officers Ethan Johnson, Chelsea Wright, and Donna Tissue immediately captured the attention of peers and staff with a review of such activity in Americus and Sumter County, as well as potential future events. 

In their training, the officers relied upon information from the ALERTT Center at Texas State University, established in 2002 to address the need for active shooter response training for first responders. In 2013, the program was named by the FBI as the National Standard in Active Shooter Response Training.

The officers noted that the top three most dangerous sites for possible public violence are commercial sites, educational institutions, and outdoor events. In our own area, public violence has occurred, including a 1999 event in Columbus, Georgia, which claimed the greatest number of casualties.

“I know that you all are aware of dangerous activity if you watch television or read the newspaper,” said Officer Johnson. “We are trying to increase awareness of any possible event in our gathering areas." Further information on active shooter awareness and response is available on the ALERRT center website.

In the photo above, officers Ethan Johnson, Chelsea Wright, and Donna Tissue share information with peers and staff at Perry Wellness Center. Our thanks to them and the GSW Campus Police and Safety office for their assistance.