ORANGE PARK – Samantha Dangerfield is enrolled in the Florida Law Enforcement Academy at St. Johns River State College.
As part of her basic recruit training, the 24-yearold Clay County resident will master many techniques, including vehicle operations, criminal investigations, CPR, firearms and defensive tactics. Upon completion of the program, Samantha will be eligible to take the state officer’s certification exam.
She took time from her busy schedule to talk about her academic career and future goals.

What inspired you to pursue a career in law enforcement?
Dangerfield: “I come from a long line of law enforcement officers. There are nine members of my family who are either retired, starting a new career or are currently employed in law enforcement, including both of my parents. My mom is, by far, my biggest role model. She has been with the Clay County Sheriff’s Office for more than 30 years and is now serving as a sergeant. She, too, started in the dispatch unit, and I aspire to serve with the same commitment to my community.”

What was your career before applying to the Criminal Justice Academy at SJR State?
Dangerfield: “I have worked at the Clay County Sheriff’s Office as a public safety telecommunicator (911 dispatcher/NCIC operator) for 2½ years.”

Why did you choose SJR State?
Dangerfield: “I’m sponsored by the Clay County Sheriff’s Office. And, I know several alumni from this Academy and have always heard great things, so I’m glad I got to enroll here.”

How is your training best preparing you for the workforce?
Dangerfield: “It’s easy to think that when you’ve grown up around law enforcement that you have a pretty good idea about how things work; however, as a cadet, I’ve realized there is an immense learning curve to this profession – from the academic side to the physical demands. Our classes cover many subjects that I never realized were such major components of this profession.”

What do you like most about the program?
Dangerfield: “I really enjoy the physical training, especially the grappling technique.”

What was the most valuable thing you learned about yourself as a student?
Dangerfield: “I’m learning there is no situation that I can’t handle. Between good communication and self-defense, I can handle anything. My smaller frame doesn’t mean I can’t handle the same situations as the big guys.”

What advice would you give to those considering the program?
Dangerfield: “Take prepping for the physical training seriously; they won’t go easy on you. They’re going to push you to your limits, but that’s because they’re teaching you to never give up, no matter how tired you are. Law enforcement is a career where you’re never going to be 100% safe, so knowing what you can and can’t handle physically is important, and learning to never give up is one of the most valuable lessons they can teach you.”

Where do you see yourself in the next 10 years?
Dangerfield: “At the agency, I love the work family I have there. I’m hoping to serve on a specialty unit, such as the K-9 unit. I also hope to take over the sergeant radio number my dad used before he retired, as well as the one my mom currently has now.”