OC Sheriff’s recruits share training with Special Olympics athletes

The Orange County Sheriff’s Department’s latest class of recruits had an extra member as they finished their 26-week academy.

The department’s Regional Training Academy debuted with this session a new partnership with Special Olympics Southern California that invites an honorary recruit to training events with the future deputies. The program’s goal, officials said, is “to build a meaningful relationship with members of the community they will soon serve” and introduce the Special Olympics athletes to the “rigorous training” peace officers go through.

The first honorary recruit, Brett Laza, 30, joined members of Class #249 on Wednesday, July 20, for the Fallen Officers’ Memorial Run,  a physical fitness competition that caps off the academy session.

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