Gordon County Sheriff Mitch Ralston has announced the appointment of Deputy Erik Ochoa as the newest instructor for the Sheriff’s Office’s C.H.A.M.P.S. (Choosing Healthy Activities and Methods Promoting Safety) program.
Developed by the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association, the C.H.A.M.P.S. program is designed to educate elementary school students on a range of important topics, including internet safety, substance abuse prevention, peer pressure, and ATV safety. The program is currently implemented in more than 100 counties across Georgia through local Sheriff’s Offices.
Deputy Ochoa recently completed instructor training and received his official certification during a presentation that included GSA Training Director Brent Loeffler, ‘Champ’ the program’s mascot, and Fannin County Sheriff’s Captain Darvin Couch.
Sheriff Ralston expressed his confidence in Deputy Ochoa, stating, “Deputy Ochoa is well-suited for this important role, and I’m proud to have him represent our office in the schools.”
Ochoa will begin leading the program in local public elementary schools this upcoming school year.
