Hundreds of faith leaders and volunteers from across Stanislaus County and beyond gathered this week for a Sheriff’s Office-led workshop focused on helping places of worship prepare for emergencies ranging from medical incidents to active threats.
The Sheriff’s Office hosted its second faith-based security workshop Monday, drawing close to 300 participants after the Nov. 18 first session filled quickly, according to Sgt. Nathan Crain. Attendees represented a wide range of religious traditions and traveled from as far as San Jose, Jamestown, Sonora and Oakhurst .
“Going into any presentation — whether it’s big or small — you’re always a little nervous,” Lt. Brock Condit said after the event. “After the first one, we had overwhelming positive feedback, and again today, overwhelming positive feedback.”
Condit and Hughson Police Chief Brock Dias helped organize the training after attending a large faith-based security symposium in Texas earlier this year. They adapted what they learned to create a program tailored specifically to local congregations…