Johnson County Sheriff Edward Tester announced his department will offer a church training program on Saturday, Feb. 29, at Calvary Baptist Church, 1354 Cold Springs Road, Mountain City, beginning at 9 a.m.

Sheriff Tester said the program is open to all churches in the area and the training will be free.

Sheriff Tester said the course will cover several security topics including Active Shooter. Churches have become vulnerable for Active Shooters and intruders. He said an event is occurring about every seven days. Sheriff Tester said attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and get information on security programs for their church.

Sheriff Tester along with Ken Potter, a retired law enforcement officer who offers security training for churches and has written a policy and procedure manual, will be leading the program.

Jerry Stout from Homeland Security and Kent Harris, a Washington County Commissioner and former sheriff of Unicoi County, will also participate in the training.

Sheriff Harris along with Potter wrote and taught the first program in this area.

State Representative Timothy Hill along with Attorney Jim Bowman and Constable Robert “Kent” Harris will also be part of the training.

Sheriff Tester said this group will help present during the program to answer questions and be available to help any church that needs recommendations on setting up their security team.

“I want every church and our communities to be safe,” Sheriff Tester emphasized.

You may contact Sheriff Tester at the Johnson County Sheriff’s Department, (423) 727-7761, to get more information or just attend.