Jefferson County Sheriff Lafayette Woods, Jr., poses with Lieutenant Christopher Grider (left), holding a certificate of completion from the Criminal Justice Institute's School of Law Enforcement Supervision at Little Rock.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA CONTACT

Major Gary McClain

Office:  870.541.5351 / 870.329.5638

Email:  gary.mcclain@jeffcoso.org

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GRIDER COMPLETES ARKANSAS' PREMIER LAW ENFORCEMENT SUPERVISION TRAINING:  Jefferson County, Arkansas - May 18, 2023 - The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office (JCSO) is proud to announce that Lieutenant Christopher Grider has successfully graduated from Session 58 of the School of Law Enforcement Supervision. This intensive four-week mid-level management school divided into four months was specifically designed for first- and second-line supervisors. The training was hosted by Arkansas' Criminal Justice Institute. Lieutenant Grider was one of fifty-two law enforcement officers from across the State of Arkansas who completed the program and took part in a graduation ceremony held at the Wyndham Riverfront in Little Rock, AR.

Born and raised in Cleveland County, Arkansas, Lieutenant Grider is a dedicated professional who has consistently demonstrated exceptional commitment and leadership throughout his career. After graduating from Woodlawn High School, he joined the United States Army, where he began his journey in law enforcement. In June 2011, Lieutenant Grider joined the JCSO and was initially assigned to the W.C. "Dub" Brassell Adult Detention Center. However, he received military orders for reactivation and completed tours of duty in Afghanistan during "Operation Enduring Freedom." Following an honorable discharge upon fulfilling the terms of his enlistment, Lieutenant Grider returned from military leave in September 2014 and rejoined the JCSO, where he was reassigned to JCSO's Warrants Division.

Throughout his career with the JCSO, Lieutenant Grider has excelled in various roles. In 2016, he was reassigned to the Uniformed Patrol Division, where he served until his promotion to corporal in May 2017 and subsequently to sergeant in November 2019. In recognition of his exceptional skills and leadership abilities, Lieutenant Grider was promoted to the rank of lieutenant in March 2020. Most recently, in March 2023, he was transferred to JCSO's Training Division, where he currently oversees the coordination and planning of continuing professional development for JCSO law enforcement personnel.

Lieutenant Grider's dedication to excellence extends beyond his role in the Training Division. He serves as the team leader for JCSO's Special Response Team, a highly trained and specially equipped group of sheriff's deputies who respond to emergencies requiring advanced law enforcement tactics. Additionally, Lieutenant Grider is a certified law enforcement instructor, holding special certifications in defensive tactics and firearms.

Sheriff Lafayette Woods, Jr. expressed his pride in Lieutenant Grider's accomplishment, stating, "Lieutenant Grider's successful completion of Session 58 of the School of Law Enforcement Supervision is a testament to his unwavering commitment to professional growth and development. His leadership and expertise have had a positive impact on the JCSO, and we are confident that he will continue to excel in his role as he applies the knowledge and skills gained from this prestigious program."

The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office congratulates Lieutenant Grider on his graduation from the School of Law Enforcement Supervision and commends him for his continued dedication to serving and protecting the community. Lieutenant Grider's achievements serve as an inspiration to his fellow law enforcement professionals and underscore the JCSO's commitment to providing the highest standard of training and leadership development.