An increase in the number of sexual crimes against women and an influx of calls from women concerned about safety has prompted the Jones County Sheriff’s Department to conduct firearm safety classes throughout Jones County.
Captain Eddy Ingram, training director for the Jones County Sheriff’s Department, said the classes will begin Dec. 1 and run through Feb. 18. There is no cost to participate in the classes.
“A lot of people have an interest in gun safety, especially since we have a serial rapist out there,” said Ingram. “They want to be able to protect themselves.”
Shuanita Weathersby, JCSD’s public relations director, said there are many women who have informed them that they own guns and keep them in their homes for protection. However, they are quick to point out that they don’t know how to use them.
“You can’t protect yourself too well if you don’t know how to use a weapon,” she said. “I’ve also had some to say they keep their gun in a drawer or in a closet somewhere. I’ve learned that that’s no help either.”
Ingram said, “A gun makes a good boat anchor if you don’t know how to use it. The gun should be kept close enough for you to get to it if you have an intruder or are assaulted. We’ll talk about these things in the classes.”
Ingram noted that a lot of women tend to have fears about possessing and using a gun. The classes are designed to help them overcome those fears.
But, although the classes are geared toward females, Ingram said any adult is welcome to attend. He said the classes will help citizens identify firearms and the proper way to use them for home protection.
“We just focus on them because the largest number of requests for the classes come from females,” he said. “They have concerns about sexual assault.”
The classes will take place from 6 to 8:30 a.m., two days a week. There is a different training site each month and space is limited. Citizens are asked not to bring weapons to the classes. The department will provide everything needed to participate in the sessions.
The class schedule is as follows:
• First Baptist Church of Myrick —Dec. 1 and 8
• Life Church Gymnasium — Jan. 12 and 14
• Moselle School Multipurpose Center — Jan. 19 and 21
• Sandersville Community Center — Feb. 2 and 4
• Ovett Community Center — Feb. 9 and 11
• Laurel Pistol Range — Feb. 16 and 18
“It is very important for those interested in attending to call me to have their names placed on the list of attendees,” said Weathersby.
However, Ingram said if there is a large number of people interested in attending classes in a given area, he will consider adding additional classes.
To reserve your spot in the classes, phone Shuanita Weathersby at 601-428-3151.
Local News
Related Photos
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Photo/Charlotte A. Graham
JCSD offers firearm safety training
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