Members of the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office Corrections Emergency Response Team (C.E.R.T.) recently traveled to Moundsville, West Virginia, to participate in the 2026 Mock Prison Riot, one of the premier corrections and public safety training events in the nation.

Held each spring at the historic, decommissioned West Virginia Penitentiary, the Mock Prison Riot brings together corrections professionals, law enforcement officers, military personnel, and public safety practitioners from around the world for several days of hands-on training, practical exercises, and professional development.

During the event, the BSO C.E.R.T. Team participated in obstacle course challenges, tactical scenarios, and speed competitions while also completing numerous training courses and certifications. The curriculum covered a wide range of topics, including chemical and impact munitions, PepperBall deployment, defensive tactics, hostage negotiations, tactical medical response, emerging technologies, and instructor development.

The knowledge and skills gained through this experience directly enhance the capabilities of our Corrections Division. Not only does this training better prepare our deputies to respond to critical incidents, but it also allows them to bring valuable techniques and certifications back to Bossier Parish to share with fellow deputies through future training opportunities.

This year’s event attracted agencies from across the United States and around the world, including representatives from Costa Rica, the Bahamas, Israel, New York, Florida, Nebraska, and many other locations. The opportunity to train alongside and learn from professionals with diverse backgrounds provides invaluable insight and strengthens partnerships across the public safety community.

Sheriff Whittington and the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office would like to thank our C.E.R.T. Team for their commitment to excellence and their dedication to continuous learning. We are proud of the way they represented our agency and grateful for the opportunity to invest in training that strengthens our ability to serve and protect the citizens of Bossier Parish.