Sharp Shooter

Seven trophies were brought home from Springfield, Missouri.

The competition team from the GCCC Criminal Justice program traveled out of state to put their work to the test against other colleges in Region 3 of the ACJA (American Criminal Justice Association), competing in firearms, physical agility, tests, and crime scene.

Firearms consisted of three different distances in yards; 7 yards away from target, 15 yards, and 25 yards. Participants had to utilize their sharp-shooting skills to take a trophy and bragging rights.

Physical agility involved running around a course, maneuvering hurdles, flipping a tire, and dragging a mannequin.

Eric Thill, who placed first in physical agility said, ""I thought it was great! It was also a great opportunity for TEl to represent GCCC in a postitive way."

In writings, there were five tests on different subjects including; ACJA history of the association, Juvenile, Criminal Law, Corrections, Police Management and Operations.

Each competitor haf to take a 75-question test.

Crime scene consisted of an area where a crime was committed. With a team of three, students had to use their investigative skills to figure out what happened to the victim and what lead to the crime.

After the dinner on Oct. 22, GCCC students had the opportunity to go on a ride-a-long with the Springfield Police Department during their third-shift, overnight shift. These students got to experience what happens in big city streets. After once in a life time experience, they attended the final breakfast provided by the association. During this breakfast was when they trophies were handed out to the winners.

"It was really fun and I encourage others to  join next year," Patricia Ball said.