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LULING — Sheriff Greg Champagne is pleased to announce four officers graduated from the Louisiana D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) Officer Training Class #46 in Alexandria on Friday, August 25, 2023. Thirty officers from across Louisiana graduated after completing the rigorous 80-hour training course. These officers are now certified to teach the D.A.R.E. Program to students.

SCSO’s newest D.A.R.E. graduates are Deputy Gonzalez, Lieutenant Brown, Deputy Lerille, and Sergeant Cunningham.

D.A.R.E. students learn how to make responsible decisions by understanding the true effects and consequences of drugs. They get tools on how to resist peer pressure by saying “no” to negative influences and by becoming a positive influence to their peers. Students also learn how to deal with stress by learning tips on healthy communication, both verbal and nonverbal. Lastly, they are taught the dangers of bullying, both physical and emotional, and are encouraged to help others by being a responsible bystander by informing trusted adults of what they witness. The D.A.R.E. program continues to positively influence the next generation with a consistent message year after year, decade after decade.