Jefferson County, Arkansas – The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office is celebrating an important milestone this week after announcing the graduation of two of its deputies from one of the state’s most demanding training programs.
Deputies Cortney Fox and Chastin Stephens have officially completed their training at the Arkansas Law Enforcement Training Academy, a rigorous program designed to prepare new officers for the physical, mental, and ethical demands of modern policing. Their graduation marks the successful end of months of intensive instruction and testing, and the beginning of their full-time service in Jefferson County.
The academy itself is widely regarded as one of the most challenging law enforcement training environments in Arkansas. Recruits are pushed through a structured curriculum that covers criminal law, constitutional law, defensive tactics, firearms proficiency, emergency vehicle operations, ethics, and community-oriented policing. Each area is designed not only to build technical ability, but also to test decision-making under pressure and reinforce the responsibilities that come with public service.
For Fox and Stephens, completing the program represents more than just finishing a course. It reflects persistence, discipline, and a willingness to meet high expectations in a profession that demands constant focus. Their achievement signals that they have met the standards required to step into active duty and serve the public with confidence.
Sheriff Woods expressed strong support and pride in the newly graduated deputies, emphasizing the difficulty of the program and the significance of their accomplishment.
“We are extremely proud of Deputies Fox and Stephens for achieving this important milestone. The Arkansas Law Enforcement Training Academy is a rigorous program that demands discipline, focus, and perseverance. Their success speaks volumes about their character and their commitment to public service. We are confident they will serve our community with professionalism, integrity, and dedication.”
His comments reflect the broader expectations placed on new deputies entering the field. Law enforcement roles require not only technical training but also the ability to handle unpredictable situations while maintaining professionalism and composure.
The graduation also highlights the ongoing investment in law enforcement training across the state. Programs like ALETA are designed to ensure that officers entering local agencies are properly prepared to handle a wide range of responsibilities, from routine patrol duties to emergency response situations. The goal is to build a foundation of skills that can be applied directly in the field, while also reinforcing ethical standards and community trust.
Now that their academy training is complete, Deputies Fox and Stephens will return to Jefferson County to begin the next phase of their careers. They will join active service within the sheriff’s office, where they will apply their training in real-world situations and continue learning through on-the-job experience.
Officials say the transition from academy life to field duty is a critical step for any new deputy. While the training provides a strong foundation, real-world policing introduces new challenges that require adaptability and judgment. The sheriff’s office expressed confidence that both deputies are prepared for this responsibility and will grow into their roles over time.
The announcement has been met with pride within the department, where new deputy graduations are seen as both a personal achievement and a strengthening of public safety resources in the county. Each addition to the force contributes to the office’s ability to serve residents effectively and respond to community needs.
As Fox and Stephens begin their careers in Jefferson County, the department is encouraging the public to join in recognizing their achievement. Their graduation not only marks the end of a demanding training process, but also the beginning of their commitment to protecting and serving the community with dedication and professionalism.
