The 2017 Leadership Cattaraugus class had an engaging day getting a first-hand look at the work of area law enforcement during its October session, which focused on the justice system.
The leadership class convened at Jamestown Community College’s Olean campus first for a presentation by Det. Sgt. Clark Parry of the Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s Office, who gave an overview of the county’s justice system. Parry also discussed the various levels of offenses, how police handle each case, and the work that goes into enforcing the law.
The cohort then headed to Olean City Court to observe Judge Dan Palumbo preside over several criminal cases.
Officers with the K-9 units of several area police agencies met the Leadership Cattaraugus class in Lincoln Park after the court visit. The K-9 officers talked about their line of work within law enforcement, sharing stories from several cases of interest they worked on, and discussing what it takes to raise and train an effective K-9 unit dog. The officers also gave a demonstration with their dogs.
The group spent the afternoon at the Cattaraugus County Building in Little Valley, participating in a panel discussion with New York State Police Capt. Eugene Staniszewski, Lt. Melanie Churakos of the county’s sheriff’s office, and City of Olean Police Chief Jeff Rowley. The three law enforcement officials gave brief presentations on their respective agencies and talked about how they all work together. They also fielded questions from the group.
After touring the Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s Office and Cattaraugus County Jail, the cohort saw the county’s SWAT Team’s vehicle and the equipment its members use in the line of duty.
The 2017 leadership class will next gather on Nov. 14 for Human Services Day.