Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET)

General Information

Basic Law Enforcement Training is an accredited program of the North Carolina Criminal Justice Education & Training Standards Commission and the North Carolina Sheriffs’ Education & Training Standards Commission. Upon successful completion of this program, students may sit for the comprehensive State certification examination, which is one of the many requirements mandated by the North Carolina Administrative Code for employment as a police officer or Deputy Sheriff. The Academy is a full-time program conducted over a period of 17 weeks and consisting of 624 hours of training. Class sessions are held Monday through Friday starting at 7:00 a.m. with the schedule varying depending upon the training topic of the day. Occasional night training is mandated.

Academy Environment

Basic Law Enforcement Training is conducted in a para-military environment. While many of the principles and practices of military training are utilized in BLET, the goals differ from that of the military. All training practices at the Coastal Plain Law Enforcement Training Center are aimed at one result – the creation of an entry-level officer who has acquired a high level of job knowledge, who is prepared for the physical challenges of the job, who has developed a professional appearance and attitude, and who appreciates the benefits of treating people with dignity and respect. To this end emphasis is placed on:

• Physical Fitness & Wellness: Cadets participate in a challenging, but not impossible, program of physical activities to prepare for the rigors of the job. Activities include calisthenics, weight training, group runs, and aerobics. Combined with attention to proper diet, Cadets can expect weight loss and an improved sense of self-esteem. Applicants should be in reasonably good physical condition, good health, and highly motivated.
• Discipline: Survival and professional service are based upon the development of a high level of discipline. The concept of discipline encompasses learning to do what has to be done, and then doing it in an orderly, well-planned, and team like manner. It includes the development of self-control, character, efficiency, and dependability. With discipline comes a recognition of tradition, pride, honor, and duty. Disciplined officers quickly gain recognition by their superiors and become leaders in their agency.

Certification

Upon satisfactory completion of all Academy requirements and a passing score on the Commission administered state examination, the student will be eligible for probationary certification as a law enforcement officer or Deputy Sheriff. Those graduates who complete the Academy as sponsored Cadets are now eligible for employment

Lodging

North Carolina Community College System rules prohibit on-site housing of students. However, assistance in making appropriate lodging arrangements will be provided to any Cadet in need. Wilson Community College will not be financially responsible for any such lodging.

Admission of Cadets

Reading Comprehension

Before starting the BLET application process, you must demonstrate 10th-grade reading proficiency by taking the Reading Test administered in the Student Center. To register for the reading proficiency test go to F-103c on the day of the test. Preregistration is not needed. Bring picture ID to the test.

The reading comprehension test is offered on the first and third Monday of each month. There is no registration fee or process; all that is needed for the test is a picture ID.

Applicants for admission to the Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) Academy will be expected to possess those requisites for employment as a police officer or Deputy Sheriff as established by the North Carolina Administrative Code, and any other admission requirements deemed necessary by Wilson Community College.

Cost

North Carolina Community College System rules provide a tuition exemption for all employed law enforcement officers, including BLET applicants sponsored by a law enforcement agency or Sheriff. This is a saving of approximately $560.00 to the individual or agency. Required books, materials, and ammunition are provided by the college at no cost to the student. Required clothing and medical examination are the student’s responsibility at an approximate cost of $600.00. This program is approved for Pell Grant. Students should contact the financial aid office for more information. Weapons, leather gear, handcuffs, and vehicles are also provided by Wilson Community College at no cost to the student.

Job Placement

The Coastal Plain Law Enforcement Training Center has an excellent history of preparing well-trained entry-level officers. Having a state-wide reputation, the Academy has been a recruiting ground for agencies throughout the state. The employment rate for graduates of the Coastal Plain Law Enforcement Training Center for the past ten years is 100%.