SC Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services

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Probation and Parole Agents

The Training Compliance and Professional Development (TCPD) Section of the Department provides all personnel the opportunity to grow professionally and personally through their participation in a wide variety of training. A training catalogue is published annually to advertise all courses that will be offered. Training is provided in the areas of basic agent training, core training, in-service training, and professional development.

Parole and Probation Agents undergo training in a wide range of skills related to public and community safety.

Firearms Training

Probation and Agents are issued .40 caliber Glocks, and provided training in the safe and appropriate use of their firearms.

Arrest Scenario Training

This program supplements the Agent Basic Safety Training Program, specifically related to out-of-office or field arrests. It focuses on the strategy of arrests and building-entry tactics that are practical for agents. In particular, the training concentrates on:

Preparation and risk factors involved in arrests, whether through a warrant team or other means

Safety, teamwork, and development of competence and confidence

Defensive Driving Training

All agents must complete defensive driving training as part of the C-1 Certification. Agents train in Ford Crown Victorias provided by the Criminal Justice Academy (CJA). The two-day training takes place at the CJA Driving Range and consists of:

Threshold braking

Evasive maneuvering

Controlled braking

Off-road recovery

Precision maneuvering

Skid control

Highway response

Additional Training

Safety training plays a key role in enhancing the skills of agents in the field. In addition to firearms and arrest scenario instruction, agents receive annual in-service training in pressure point control tactics and prisoner transport.