After months of talks, Pasco-Hernando State College and the Pasco County Sheriff's Office have reached on agreement that will keep their law enforcement program going.

Here is a news release from the college:

Pasco-Hernando State College and the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office have reached an agreement relating to the operations of PHSC’s law enforcement program.

The Interlocal Agreement was approved by a vote of PHSC’s District Board of Trustees at a special meeting held on August 26 at the College’s West Campus in New Port Richey. The agreement had been previously signed on August 18 by Sheriff Chris Nocco.

“While it took time to work through details, we feel this agreement is in the best interests of everyone concerned.” said PHSC Board Chair Len Johnson. “With this understanding in place, we can continue PHSC’s long tradition of educating cadets who are prepared to meet the demands of employment in law enforcement and advancing the education of those members of the community currently serving in law enforcement.”  Chair Johnson continued, “I would like to thank Speaker Will Weatherford, Sheriff Chris Nocco, and PHSC President Kathy Johnson for the time each contributed to reach this successful conclusion.”  

The academy will continue to operate in conformance with college policies and procedures and the applicable Rules and Standards established by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.  

The new agreement provides for the appointment of a director employed by the PCSO, providing the sheriff with an enhanced role in the selection process of law enforcement instructors. Under the agreement, the PHSC Law Enforcement programs will continue to meet the needs of all law enforcement agencies in Pasco County through advanced and specialized training and provide an avenue for members of the community to receive training to become law enforcement officers.

“We are pleased to have forged a clear and mutually beneficial agreement with the Pasco County Sheriff,” said Katherine Johnson, Ed.D., PHSC president.  “The college and the sheriff’s office have enjoyed a positive and collaborative relationship for decades. With this agreement in place, we look forward to continuing and enhancing our relationships with the sheriff’s office and all the other law enforcement agencies PHSC serves.”