The Athens County Sheriff's Academy gives students and regular civilians the opportunity to earn their OPOTA certificate, which is needed for nearly all law enforcement occupations. The intense program lasts for five months.
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Benjamin Taylor (left to right), Jen Atkins, Dave Dudley and Sam DeSaia listen to one of their instructors, Charlie Mansfield as he explains how to use handcuffs in the Athens High School library on Saturday, Feb. 18. 2012. This is the first time the cadets have practiced using handcuffs.