Guest Column by Sam Wilmes

It can be hard to comprehend the sacrifices police officers encounter on a daily basis. I must admit that I was guilty of ignorance on the issue, but after taking part in a nine-week Citizens Academy course put on by the Albert Lea Police Department, I now have more of an understanding of the sacrifices and passion officers make on a daily basis to protect us.

During the course provided to local residents, we were provided hands-on instruction on officer equipment, police procedures on drug and alcohol cases, duties of School Resource Officer Ted Herman and Community Resource Officer Mary Schroader, and the unit’s SWAT team.

Lessons were provided on other aspects of law enforcement work, and we were able to shoot a gun in the building’s shooting range, conduct our own crime scene investigation and obtain CPR licenses, thanks to the help of Sergeant Tim Harves, who has numerous awards for saving lives. 

We were recognized earlier this month by the Albert Lea City Council, and a dinner was provided.

The biggest learning experience I had during my experience was on a ride-along I took part in with Lt. Jeff Strom. During the eight hours I was in the police car with him, I learned a number of issues officers face on a daily basis that I was not aware of beforehand. To my surprise, law enforcement are wary of visiting some local fast-food restaurants because workers are known to mess with their food, which is unacceptable. I couldn’t believe people who lay their lives on the line every day for us have to worry what will be in their burger or taco. I also became aware of the constant struggle they face in arresting people who have been through the court system a number of times.

During the night, I received a glimpse of the elements of police work. Strom, along with other officers, investigated the scene where an alleged drunken driver struck a vehicle, causing at least one injury and a trip to the hospital. A family was also helped in finding a child whom they feared had disappeared.

Strom showed a passion for the position. He was responsible for putting the Citizens Academy course together to improve communication between law enforcement and the community. A longtime officer, Strom puts in long hours and leads the city’s Toward Zero Deaths program. The long hours he dedicates to his job — sacrificing hours he could be spending away from work — shows his commitment to his position and how much he cares about the community.

The No. 1 takeaway you get while in the course and on the ride-along is that officers care. I am confident that every officer I met would lay their life on the line to protect each and every one of us. That is a hero.

I suggest anyone who wants to learn more about the Police Department participate in next year’s class, and, most importantly, take part in a ride-along — you will gain the same appreciation I have for officers.

Sam Wilmes is the government and crime reporter at the Albert Lea Tribune.