Since 2024, the College has heavily updated its law enforcement program procedures and personnel. Notably, the accreditation allows Blue Ridge to offer Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) beginning in January 2027, helping prepare new law enforcement officers to meet North Carolina’s certification requirements and enter the field.

“We take seriously our responsibility to provide high-quality training that meets and exceeds the rigorous standards established for law enforcement education in North Carolina,” said Chris Williams, Blue Ridge’s dean of Public Safety Training. “With valuable input and encouragement from our agency partners, we have rebuilt our program from the ground up, preparing to better serve our region with excellence, accountability, and integrity.”

In light of personnel and safety concerns in 2023, the College and CJ Standards paused and later suspended the BLET course in 2024. Since that time, Blue Ridge has employed a new staff and oversight team, from classroom-level qualified assistants ensuring accountability and compliance, through the area’s vice president. To instill best practices and prepare for reaccreditation, this year the College commissioned a months-long assessment through the North Carolina Association of Chiefs of Police (NCACP). On June 22, an on-site inspection by CJ Standards found Blue Ridge in full compliance.

The College expects and welcomes continued CJ Standards inspections throughout the year and invites agency partners to engage and participate in program activities, helping ensure compliance and guide the program’s continued positive development.

“We’ve taken a comprehensive approach to rebuilding our instructional team,” added Williams. “Our efforts have focused on ensuring these new instructors are fully certified, qualified and in good standing with the Department of Justice. This includes not only classroom instructors, but also assistant instructors and training scenario role players.”

Blue Ridge President Dr. Laura B. Leatherwood emphasized the value of consulting with law enforcement partners and the NCACP for guidance while rebuilding the program. This guidance is shaping the development of a new, program-specific strategic plan for law enforcement training that will include enhanced oversight and an annual internal review process.

“Under the experienced leadership of our new dean of Public Safety Training, the valuable input of our partners will help shape our practices and strengthen our approach to law enforcement education,” she said. “By embracing their recommendations, we are laying a strong foundation for continuous improvement and demonstrating our commitment to the highest standards of excellence, positioning Blue Ridge and our students for long-term success.”

This fall, Blue Ridge expects to hire more than 60 experienced instructors to teach a range of law enforcement courses. This process includes engagement with community partners across the region to ensure instructors are hired that meet agency needs.

Source: Blue Ridge Community College.