2021 Constables Training Schedule
Transcript Of 2021 Constables Training Schedule
Constables’ Education and Training Board
2021 Constables’ Training Schedule
January through October 2021 80-Hour Basic Training
20-Hour Continuing Education 40-Hour Basic Firearms
5-Hour Annual Firearms Qualification
Constables’ Education and Training Board Members:
Board Chair – John F. Bruno
Vice Chair – Francis C. Peitz
Thomas S. Brletic Craig D. Westover George L. Bivens Patricia Norwood-Foden
Charles H. Ramsey Chairman, PCCD
Michael Pennington Executive Director, PCCD
John Pfau Manager, Bureau of Training Services
Constables’ Education and Training Board
ALL TRAINING COURSES ARE FILLED ON A FIRST-COME, FIRST-SERVED BASIS.
Training Courses are limited in size and must meet specific minimum enrollment requirements as per training class type. Those training class limits and minimums will be strictly enforced, so it is important to enroll early.
Below are the minimum class sizes utilized by the program.
Basic Training – 14 students minimum Basic Firearms – 9 students minimum Continuing Education – 16 students minimum Annual Firearms Qualification – 16 students minimum
It is the constable and deputy constables’ responsibility to enroll into Training Courses to maintain their certification for the next calendar year. To ensure uninterrupted certification, constables should enroll in Training Courses, as soon as possible. Enroll early. Online enrollment is the fastest and easiest way to enroll.
Constables’ Training Courses that are not meeting the minimum enrollment numbers may be combined and/or canceled. Please enroll into Training Courses by May 31, 2021. You may not get the class or location of your choice if you enroll after this time period.
Important Notes for 2021
All CCETS Users must register with Keystone Login, to complete the Keystone Login Registration, go to: https://portal.pccd.pa.gov/PortalLogin/Login/CCETS. If you have not already gone through the Keystone Log In changes, please go to https://www.pccd.pa.gov/training/Pages/Constables%27-Education-andTraining-Board.aspx for a Keystone Login User Guide that provides step-by-step instructions on how to register and login. Contact the Keystone Login Help Desk for all questions, concerns, and issues with Keystone Login. The help desk can be reached at 877-328-0995. You can also visit https://keystonelogin.pa.gov/Home/Help for answers to Keystone Login Frequently Asked Questions.
Please note that you do not need to register with Temple’s Canvas Learning Management System, if you have already created your Canvas account in 2020. However, your Canvas password expires after six months so you will need to change your password before you will be permitted to log back into Canvas in 2021.
If you have not done so in 2020, you will need to register with Temple University’s Canvas Learning Management System. Please check your email for important information from [email protected], on how to register with Canvas. All constables and deputy constables must have an active Temple Canvas account in order to complete the 2021 12-Hour Online Subjects, Ethics, Effective Communication and Cultural Diversity. The Canvas User Guide is located at: https://www.pccd.pa.gov/training/Pages/Constables%27-Education-and-Training-Board.aspx
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Constables’ Education and Training Board
2021 Constables’ Training Schedule
Please Note: The 2021 Constables’ Training Schedule is arranged by geographic regions in Pennsylvania. Constables have the option of attending training at any location in the Commonwealth, regardless of the area in which they reside.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Program Information 2021 Constable Curriculum Instructions for Class Enrollment Through CCETS Classroom Code of Conduct Highlights of CCETS Website for Constables North West North East South West South East Training Enrollment Forms
Page 4-8 9-20 21 22-26 27-28 29-30 31-33 34-38 39-43 44-48
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Constables’ Education and Training Board
Program Information
Address Change Personal Information Review
Per Board Policy: A person shall register with the Board for certification by submitting information such as mailing and/or email addresses, telephone number, Social Security Number, date of birth and office held or sought. A constable shall set forth the beginning date and expiration date of the term of office held and provide documentary evidence of election or appointment. A registrant shall inform the Board of a change to registration information within 15 days of the change (Title 37 §431.11 (b)). Change of Registration Information can be updated on-line through the Constables’ Certification, Education and Training System (CCETS). Refer to page 18 for more information regarding CCETS. Change of registration information can also be completed by mail or FAX to: Bureau of Training Services, Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD), PO Box 1167, Harrisburg PA 17108-1167; FAX (717) 783-7140 or by contacting your training region’s PCCD contact at the email or phone number listed below:
Contact Information at PCCD
(If you have questions regarding certification, insurance, or where to send your election certificate or appointment order.)
THESE ARE NOT CONTACTS FOR CLASS ENROLLMENT WESTERN PA: Adams, Armstrong, Allegheny, Beaver, Bedford, Blair, Butler, Cambria, Cameron, Centre, Clarion, Clinton, Crawford, Cumberland, Elk, Erie, Fayette, Forest, Franklin, Fulton, Greene, Huntingdon, Indiana, Jefferson, Juniata, Lawrence, Mercer, McKean, Mifflin, Perry, Potter, Somerset, Venango, Washington, Warren, and Westmoreland Counties
Your contact person is: Tracy Beaver, (717) 265-8552, [email protected] EASTERN PA: Berks, Bradford, Bucks, Carbon, Chester, Columbia, Dauphin, Delaware, Lackawanna, Lancaster, Lebanon, Lehigh, Luzerne, Lycoming, Monroe, Montgomery, Montour, Northampton, Northumberland, Pike, Schuylkill, Snyder, Sullivan, Susquehanna, Tioga, Union, Wayne, Wyoming, and York Counties
Your contact person is: Nick Hartman, (717) 265-8551, [email protected]
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Constables’ Education and Training Board
COVID Protocols
The following protocols will be implemented for the 2021 Training Year. The complete documentation on the COVID Protocols and the Act 49 Training COVID Screening Form can be found at: https://www.pccd.pa.gov/training/Pages/Constables%27-Education-and-Training-Board.aspx
• Constables must wear a face mask or face shield during the entirety of classroom instruction or range activities, see exceptions on COVID protocols.
• No face mask or face shield, no admittance to class! o If removed from class for declining to wear a face mask or face shield, instructors will note this on the Act 49 COVID screening form.
• If wearing a face shield during an Annual Firearms Qualification Course, safety goggles must also be worn under the face shield during range activities. o The lead firearms instructor will have discretion if this creates a safety issue on the range.
Failure to Withdraw from Training Courses
Below is information on the current Board Regulations regarding the constable’s failure to provide timely notification when withdrawing from a Constables’ Training Course. There have been several questions from constables and deputy constables who failed to withdraw from a Training Course in a timely manner and are now required to pay to attend another Training Course.
37 Pa.C.S. §431.25(a); §431.35(a); and §431.47(a). Attendance policies:
Withdrawal. A constable who enrolls for Basic, Continuing Education, or any Firearms Qualification Course may withdraw from the Course without penalty upon timely notification to the school conducting the Basic, Continuing Education, or any Firearms Qualification Course. A notification shall be deemed timely if it is delivered to the director of the school or a designee no later than 7 calendar days prior to the start of classes. The school may assess a failing grade for all or part of the Training Course, if the constable fails to provide timely notification or to show good cause. A notification shall be deemed untimely if the notice is not received by the director of the school or a designee within 7 calendar days prior to the start of classes.
37 Pa.C.S. §431.25(b); §431.35(b); and §431.47(b). Attendance policies:
Financial Responsibility. If notification to withdraw is not given or is deemed untimely and good cause is not shown, and the constable wishes to attend another Training Course in the same training year or in the next training year, the constable shall bear financial responsibility for the cost of the additional Basic, Continuing Education, or Firearms Qualification Course. Payment must be received by the Commission at least 2 weeks prior to the class start date in the form of a certified check or money order.
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Constables’ Education and Training Board
Training Course Failures
Below is information on the current Board Policy regarding training class failures. 3. Training Course Failures.
a. A constable or deputy constable who fails a basic training, basic firearms, continuing education, or firearms qualification course after January 1, 2020, shall bear the financial responsibility to attend an additional course regardless of the training year in which the failure occurred. Class payment charges for no shows and failures for the 2021 training year are as follows: Basic Training: $1,125.00 (Must be paid prior to enrollment) Basic Firearms: $1,485.00 (Must be paid prior to enrollment) Continuing Education: $210.00 ($10.50 per 20 module hours) Annual Firearms: $115.00 If you have any questions regarding the Board’s attendance or failure policies, please call Sherry Leffler at 717265-8554 or by email at [email protected] If you have an emergency prior to the class start date, please contact the appropriate Training Delivery Contact listed below. Please do not contact PCCD Staff to enroll, withdraw or transfer Training Courses.
Training Delivery Contractor Contact Information
Western Region: Penn State University, Justice and Safety Institute, Tony Mucha – (814) 865-8051, (814) 863-3018 (FAX) and email [email protected]
Eastern Region: Temple University, Dee Beiter – (267) 468-8331, (267) 468-8660 (FAX) and email [email protected]
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Constables’ Education and Training Board
Enrollment Instructions for Classroom Training Courses
ALL TRAINING COURSES ARE FILLED ON A FIRST-COME, FIRST-SERVED BASIS. Training Courses are also limited in size. Size limits are strictly enforced, so it is important to register early. To ensure uninterrupted certification, constables should enroll in Training Courses as soon as possible. Enroll early. Online enrollment is the fastest and easiest way to enroll.
If you have not done so already, please make sure to register as a user in the Constables’ Certification, Education and Training System (CCETS). Do not wait until the 2021 Courses are open for enrollment to register for CCETS. If you register early in CCETS, you can then familiarize yourself with the system and how to enroll in courses, view training history, view and change personal information and share information with other certified constables and deputy constables. You must be a registered CCETS user to enroll into courses online. Program Staff must approve the registration prior to logging into CCETS.
Keystone Login is the login portal for CCETS and if you have any issues, you will need to contact their Help Desk at 877-328-0995. To complete the First-Time User Registration, go to: https://portal.pccd.pa.gov/PortalLogin/Login/CCETS. If you have not already gone through the Keystone Login changes, please go to https://www.pccd.pa.gov/training/Pages/Constables%27-Education-andTraining-Board.aspx for a Keystone Login User Guide that provides step-by-step instructions on how to register and login.
Online enrollment is secure, fast, and confirmed immediately. Enrollment can also be accomplished by mailing or faxing a completed standard enrollment form directly to the Training Delivery Contractor. The standard enrollment forms can be found online and are included in this training schedule. The fax and address information for the Training Delivery Contractor contacts can be on page 6. Do not mail or fax enrollment forms to PCCD, except for Basic Training and Basic Firearms enrollment forms.
Enrollment questions should be referred to the appropriate regional Training Delivery Contractor. Constables cannot enroll for Training Courses by calling or mailing PCCD, please contact the appropriate regional Training Delivery Contractor.
If class times and dates are changed, the regional Training Delivery Contractor will notify you of the change.
Notification of cancellation will be made by the regional Training Delivery Contractor via registration information filed by constables.
Enrollment Instructions for Online Training Courses
Please note: All active and certified constables and deputy constables will automatically be enrolled into the required online subjects in Temple’s Canvas System. These three online subjects will be available in Canvas on Monday, February 1, 2021.
Please keep in mind that Temple’s Canvas System and CCETS (Keystone Login) are two different User Names and Passwords.
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Constables’ Education and Training Board
Confirmation Letters
Confirmation letters being sent out for 2021 Training Courses have changed to include a list of mandatory items and recommended items. Please thoroughly read the letters to make sure you have the mandatory items needed for each Training Course type (relating to clothing and equipment). If these mandatory items are not brought with you to the Training Course, you will be asked to leave the training class. Your attendance will be documented as an “excused” absence; however, you will need to reschedule the missed portion of the Training Course once the mandatory items are obtained.
For Persons with a Record of a Disability
If special arrangements are required for a person with a record of a disability to participate in any Constable Training Course, the person must contact the appropriate regional Training Delivery Contractor at least twenty (20) days prior to the class start date.
Liability Insurance
Act 49 (§2942 (b)) states that any constable or deputy constable who fails, neglects or refuses to maintain a current insurance policy as required, or to file proof thereof with the County Clerk of Courts, shall cease automatically to be certified to perform judicial duties upon the expiration of the policy of which proof has been filed with the County Clerk of Courts. To ensure uninterrupted constable certification, it is essential that every constable file a new certificate of insurance with the County Clerk of Courts before the current insurance policy expires.
Re-Election/Election Certificates and Appointment Orders
To ensure continued, uninterrupted certification, if your term of office ended on December 31, 2020, you must forward a copy of your new election certificate from the County Board of Elections to the PCCD via email, mail or fax to: Bureau of Training Services, Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency, PO Box 1167, Harrisburg, PA 17108-1167; Fax (717) 783-7140. If you are a constable or deputy constable who has been newly appointed or re-appointed, you must forward a copy of your new appointment order signed by the President Judge or designee of the Court of Common Pleas, to the address above. Constables are reminded that they must file reappointment paperwork with the Courts relative to their Deputy Constables’ appointment.
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Constables’ Education and Training Board
2021 Constable Training Curriculum
80-Hour BASIC TRAINING
All newly elected constables or appointed deputy constables are required, under Act 49-2009 §7142(a) to attend and successfully complete Basic Training in order to perform judicial duties and be paid. Constables and appointed deputy constables must be registered with PCCD. For more information, please visit PCCD’s website at www.pccd.pa.gov or telephone PCCD, at (717) 265-8551, (717) 265- 8552 or (717) 265-8554.
At the February 14, 2019 Constables Education and Training Board (Board) Meeting, the Board voted a constable or deputy constable who is elected or appointed must pay for the expense of the Basic Training Course and the Basic Firearms Training Course starting January 1, 2020. The cost of a Basic Training Course and Basic Firearms Training Course will be determined by Program Staff and published yearly. For 2021, the cost of Basic Training is $1,125.00 and the cost of Basic Firearms is $1,485.00. The Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) approved this change at its September 11, 2019 meeting.
Refer to Title 37 Law, Chapter 431, for Regulations relating to the certification of constables and deputy constables. To successfully complete Basic Training, an individual must attend and participate in all training as scheduled during the same training year, achieve a passing score of at least 70% on each written examination administered during the Course, and successfully demonstrate practical skills during each proficiency examination. Constables and deputy constables are tested in each of the subjects listed below. An individual who receives less than 70% on any written exam will have only one opportunity to re-test in that subject. If an individual fails the re-test, that individual has failed the Basic Training Course and will not be certified by the Board.
Basic Training will consist of instruction in the following subjects: Role of the Constable in the Justice System, Professional Development, Civil Law and Process, Criminal Law and Process, Use of Force, Mechanics of Arrest, Defensive Tactics, Prisoner Transport and Custody, Court Security, Crisis Intervention, Management of Aggressive Behavior (MOAB), Expandable Baton, and Oleoresin Capsicum (OC).
Role of the Constable in the Justice System (4-Hours) This block of instruction provides an overview of the evolutionary development of the constable in Pennsylvania. It clarifies the constable’s legal responsibilities, as well as identifying civil liability issues that may affect the office of the constable. In addition, constables are presented with a working knowledge of the Pennsylvania justice system. This Course includes a written examination.
Professional Development I – Formal Communication (4-Hours) Formal communications are an important skill in any profession. Given the position of the constable in Pennsylvania's judicial system it is especially important for constables to understand the importance of formal communications and how it impacts their day-to-day operations. The Course includes an introduction to basic interview skills along with the basic principles of report writing. This Course includes a written examination.
Professional Development II – Professional Conduct (4-Hours) This Course was developed to facilitate constables' understanding of the issues of professional conduct and how they impact their day-to-day operations. The Course presents an introduction to the development of moral standards and the importance of ethics for constables. Other specific areas that are discussed include individual
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Constables’ Education and Training Board
responsibility and standards, relationships with the community and cultural diversity. This Course includes a written examination.
Civil Law and Process (12-Hours) This instruction focuses on many of the constable’s duties in the area of civil procedure, including service of process. The topic considers procedural rules that are applicable throughout the Commonwealth under Title 246, Minor Court Civil Rules, while directing constables to be cognizant of local rules and customs. Specific emphasis is placed on the citation of rules of Chapters 200, 300, 400, 500, 800, and 1200. Additionally, Title 42. Chapter 62A. Protection of Victims of Sexual Violence or Intimidation (Act 25 of 2014, which became effective July 1, 2015) will be reviewed. This Course includes a written examination.
Criminal Law and Process (8-Hours) This Course introduces constables to the history and development of criminal law in Pennsylvania. Constables’ specific duties within the criminal process are highlighted, as well as their authority and responsibilities in the areas of arrest, accountability for property and monies, and the most current law dealing with constable authority. This Course includes a written examination.
Use of Force (4-Hours) This training provides the constable with working knowledge in the areas of both lethal and non-lethal use of force. Recent case law pertinent to use-of-force issues is presented. This Course includes a written examination.
Mechanics of Arrest (8-Hours) This Course is designed to provide the constable with proper techniques for the arrest of compliant and noncompliant persons. These techniques utilize subject control holds and takedowns and direct the constable to perform the arrest from a position of advantage. The constable will be provided proper handcuffing and searching techniques for compliant and non-compliant individuals. This Course includes a written examination.
Defensive Tactics (10-Hours, 30-Minutes) This 10-hour and 30-minute block of instruction presents the constable with techniques for self-defense against armed and unarmed attackers. The defensive techniques presented include basic patterns of movement, reactionary gap/interview stance, ground fighting (offensive and defensive), arm locks, defense against gun disarms, blocking techniques, hand and arm striking skills, and kicking skills. Constables must come prepared for physical activity and dressed appropriately. In addition, this session provides the constable with techniques for retaining the holstered handgun from attack. These techniques will also provide the constable with the ability to prevent attacks on his/her holstered handgun. Each constable must demonstrate a working knowledge of each technique. The constable must supply his/her duty belt and holster. This Course includes a written examination.
Prisoner Transport (4-Hours) This Course provides Pennsylvania's constables with the procedures to properly handle prisoners in correctional facilities, in the transport vehicle or van, during movement, and throughout escort into court. The training also addresses numerous variables of prisoner transport, including constable safety, prisoner movement preparations, proper control and restraint, and special considerations such as pregnant or suicidal prisoners. The Course includes discussion on movement and transportation issues based on several actual incidents that have occurred throughout the United States. This segment provides constables with actions and precautions that they can employ to reduce the possibility that a prisoner will escape their custody or that a problem will occur during transport. This Course includes a written examination.
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2021 Constables’ Training Schedule
January through October 2021 80-Hour Basic Training
20-Hour Continuing Education 40-Hour Basic Firearms
5-Hour Annual Firearms Qualification
Constables’ Education and Training Board Members:
Board Chair – John F. Bruno
Vice Chair – Francis C. Peitz
Thomas S. Brletic Craig D. Westover George L. Bivens Patricia Norwood-Foden
Charles H. Ramsey Chairman, PCCD
Michael Pennington Executive Director, PCCD
John Pfau Manager, Bureau of Training Services
Constables’ Education and Training Board
ALL TRAINING COURSES ARE FILLED ON A FIRST-COME, FIRST-SERVED BASIS.
Training Courses are limited in size and must meet specific minimum enrollment requirements as per training class type. Those training class limits and minimums will be strictly enforced, so it is important to enroll early.
Below are the minimum class sizes utilized by the program.
Basic Training – 14 students minimum Basic Firearms – 9 students minimum Continuing Education – 16 students minimum Annual Firearms Qualification – 16 students minimum
It is the constable and deputy constables’ responsibility to enroll into Training Courses to maintain their certification for the next calendar year. To ensure uninterrupted certification, constables should enroll in Training Courses, as soon as possible. Enroll early. Online enrollment is the fastest and easiest way to enroll.
Constables’ Training Courses that are not meeting the minimum enrollment numbers may be combined and/or canceled. Please enroll into Training Courses by May 31, 2021. You may not get the class or location of your choice if you enroll after this time period.
Important Notes for 2021
All CCETS Users must register with Keystone Login, to complete the Keystone Login Registration, go to: https://portal.pccd.pa.gov/PortalLogin/Login/CCETS. If you have not already gone through the Keystone Log In changes, please go to https://www.pccd.pa.gov/training/Pages/Constables%27-Education-andTraining-Board.aspx for a Keystone Login User Guide that provides step-by-step instructions on how to register and login. Contact the Keystone Login Help Desk for all questions, concerns, and issues with Keystone Login. The help desk can be reached at 877-328-0995. You can also visit https://keystonelogin.pa.gov/Home/Help for answers to Keystone Login Frequently Asked Questions.
Please note that you do not need to register with Temple’s Canvas Learning Management System, if you have already created your Canvas account in 2020. However, your Canvas password expires after six months so you will need to change your password before you will be permitted to log back into Canvas in 2021.
If you have not done so in 2020, you will need to register with Temple University’s Canvas Learning Management System. Please check your email for important information from [email protected], on how to register with Canvas. All constables and deputy constables must have an active Temple Canvas account in order to complete the 2021 12-Hour Online Subjects, Ethics, Effective Communication and Cultural Diversity. The Canvas User Guide is located at: https://www.pccd.pa.gov/training/Pages/Constables%27-Education-and-Training-Board.aspx
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Constables’ Education and Training Board
2021 Constables’ Training Schedule
Please Note: The 2021 Constables’ Training Schedule is arranged by geographic regions in Pennsylvania. Constables have the option of attending training at any location in the Commonwealth, regardless of the area in which they reside.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Program Information 2021 Constable Curriculum Instructions for Class Enrollment Through CCETS Classroom Code of Conduct Highlights of CCETS Website for Constables North West North East South West South East Training Enrollment Forms
Page 4-8 9-20 21 22-26 27-28 29-30 31-33 34-38 39-43 44-48
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Constables’ Education and Training Board
Program Information
Address Change Personal Information Review
Per Board Policy: A person shall register with the Board for certification by submitting information such as mailing and/or email addresses, telephone number, Social Security Number, date of birth and office held or sought. A constable shall set forth the beginning date and expiration date of the term of office held and provide documentary evidence of election or appointment. A registrant shall inform the Board of a change to registration information within 15 days of the change (Title 37 §431.11 (b)). Change of Registration Information can be updated on-line through the Constables’ Certification, Education and Training System (CCETS). Refer to page 18 for more information regarding CCETS. Change of registration information can also be completed by mail or FAX to: Bureau of Training Services, Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD), PO Box 1167, Harrisburg PA 17108-1167; FAX (717) 783-7140 or by contacting your training region’s PCCD contact at the email or phone number listed below:
Contact Information at PCCD
(If you have questions regarding certification, insurance, or where to send your election certificate or appointment order.)
THESE ARE NOT CONTACTS FOR CLASS ENROLLMENT WESTERN PA: Adams, Armstrong, Allegheny, Beaver, Bedford, Blair, Butler, Cambria, Cameron, Centre, Clarion, Clinton, Crawford, Cumberland, Elk, Erie, Fayette, Forest, Franklin, Fulton, Greene, Huntingdon, Indiana, Jefferson, Juniata, Lawrence, Mercer, McKean, Mifflin, Perry, Potter, Somerset, Venango, Washington, Warren, and Westmoreland Counties
Your contact person is: Tracy Beaver, (717) 265-8552, [email protected] EASTERN PA: Berks, Bradford, Bucks, Carbon, Chester, Columbia, Dauphin, Delaware, Lackawanna, Lancaster, Lebanon, Lehigh, Luzerne, Lycoming, Monroe, Montgomery, Montour, Northampton, Northumberland, Pike, Schuylkill, Snyder, Sullivan, Susquehanna, Tioga, Union, Wayne, Wyoming, and York Counties
Your contact person is: Nick Hartman, (717) 265-8551, [email protected]
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Constables’ Education and Training Board
COVID Protocols
The following protocols will be implemented for the 2021 Training Year. The complete documentation on the COVID Protocols and the Act 49 Training COVID Screening Form can be found at: https://www.pccd.pa.gov/training/Pages/Constables%27-Education-and-Training-Board.aspx
• Constables must wear a face mask or face shield during the entirety of classroom instruction or range activities, see exceptions on COVID protocols.
• No face mask or face shield, no admittance to class! o If removed from class for declining to wear a face mask or face shield, instructors will note this on the Act 49 COVID screening form.
• If wearing a face shield during an Annual Firearms Qualification Course, safety goggles must also be worn under the face shield during range activities. o The lead firearms instructor will have discretion if this creates a safety issue on the range.
Failure to Withdraw from Training Courses
Below is information on the current Board Regulations regarding the constable’s failure to provide timely notification when withdrawing from a Constables’ Training Course. There have been several questions from constables and deputy constables who failed to withdraw from a Training Course in a timely manner and are now required to pay to attend another Training Course.
37 Pa.C.S. §431.25(a); §431.35(a); and §431.47(a). Attendance policies:
Withdrawal. A constable who enrolls for Basic, Continuing Education, or any Firearms Qualification Course may withdraw from the Course without penalty upon timely notification to the school conducting the Basic, Continuing Education, or any Firearms Qualification Course. A notification shall be deemed timely if it is delivered to the director of the school or a designee no later than 7 calendar days prior to the start of classes. The school may assess a failing grade for all or part of the Training Course, if the constable fails to provide timely notification or to show good cause. A notification shall be deemed untimely if the notice is not received by the director of the school or a designee within 7 calendar days prior to the start of classes.
37 Pa.C.S. §431.25(b); §431.35(b); and §431.47(b). Attendance policies:
Financial Responsibility. If notification to withdraw is not given or is deemed untimely and good cause is not shown, and the constable wishes to attend another Training Course in the same training year or in the next training year, the constable shall bear financial responsibility for the cost of the additional Basic, Continuing Education, or Firearms Qualification Course. Payment must be received by the Commission at least 2 weeks prior to the class start date in the form of a certified check or money order.
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Constables’ Education and Training Board
Training Course Failures
Below is information on the current Board Policy regarding training class failures. 3. Training Course Failures.
a. A constable or deputy constable who fails a basic training, basic firearms, continuing education, or firearms qualification course after January 1, 2020, shall bear the financial responsibility to attend an additional course regardless of the training year in which the failure occurred. Class payment charges for no shows and failures for the 2021 training year are as follows: Basic Training: $1,125.00 (Must be paid prior to enrollment) Basic Firearms: $1,485.00 (Must be paid prior to enrollment) Continuing Education: $210.00 ($10.50 per 20 module hours) Annual Firearms: $115.00 If you have any questions regarding the Board’s attendance or failure policies, please call Sherry Leffler at 717265-8554 or by email at [email protected] If you have an emergency prior to the class start date, please contact the appropriate Training Delivery Contact listed below. Please do not contact PCCD Staff to enroll, withdraw or transfer Training Courses.
Training Delivery Contractor Contact Information
Western Region: Penn State University, Justice and Safety Institute, Tony Mucha – (814) 865-8051, (814) 863-3018 (FAX) and email [email protected]
Eastern Region: Temple University, Dee Beiter – (267) 468-8331, (267) 468-8660 (FAX) and email [email protected]
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Constables’ Education and Training Board
Enrollment Instructions for Classroom Training Courses
ALL TRAINING COURSES ARE FILLED ON A FIRST-COME, FIRST-SERVED BASIS. Training Courses are also limited in size. Size limits are strictly enforced, so it is important to register early. To ensure uninterrupted certification, constables should enroll in Training Courses as soon as possible. Enroll early. Online enrollment is the fastest and easiest way to enroll.
If you have not done so already, please make sure to register as a user in the Constables’ Certification, Education and Training System (CCETS). Do not wait until the 2021 Courses are open for enrollment to register for CCETS. If you register early in CCETS, you can then familiarize yourself with the system and how to enroll in courses, view training history, view and change personal information and share information with other certified constables and deputy constables. You must be a registered CCETS user to enroll into courses online. Program Staff must approve the registration prior to logging into CCETS.
Keystone Login is the login portal for CCETS and if you have any issues, you will need to contact their Help Desk at 877-328-0995. To complete the First-Time User Registration, go to: https://portal.pccd.pa.gov/PortalLogin/Login/CCETS. If you have not already gone through the Keystone Login changes, please go to https://www.pccd.pa.gov/training/Pages/Constables%27-Education-andTraining-Board.aspx for a Keystone Login User Guide that provides step-by-step instructions on how to register and login.
Online enrollment is secure, fast, and confirmed immediately. Enrollment can also be accomplished by mailing or faxing a completed standard enrollment form directly to the Training Delivery Contractor. The standard enrollment forms can be found online and are included in this training schedule. The fax and address information for the Training Delivery Contractor contacts can be on page 6. Do not mail or fax enrollment forms to PCCD, except for Basic Training and Basic Firearms enrollment forms.
Enrollment questions should be referred to the appropriate regional Training Delivery Contractor. Constables cannot enroll for Training Courses by calling or mailing PCCD, please contact the appropriate regional Training Delivery Contractor.
If class times and dates are changed, the regional Training Delivery Contractor will notify you of the change.
Notification of cancellation will be made by the regional Training Delivery Contractor via registration information filed by constables.
Enrollment Instructions for Online Training Courses
Please note: All active and certified constables and deputy constables will automatically be enrolled into the required online subjects in Temple’s Canvas System. These three online subjects will be available in Canvas on Monday, February 1, 2021.
Please keep in mind that Temple’s Canvas System and CCETS (Keystone Login) are two different User Names and Passwords.
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Constables’ Education and Training Board
Confirmation Letters
Confirmation letters being sent out for 2021 Training Courses have changed to include a list of mandatory items and recommended items. Please thoroughly read the letters to make sure you have the mandatory items needed for each Training Course type (relating to clothing and equipment). If these mandatory items are not brought with you to the Training Course, you will be asked to leave the training class. Your attendance will be documented as an “excused” absence; however, you will need to reschedule the missed portion of the Training Course once the mandatory items are obtained.
For Persons with a Record of a Disability
If special arrangements are required for a person with a record of a disability to participate in any Constable Training Course, the person must contact the appropriate regional Training Delivery Contractor at least twenty (20) days prior to the class start date.
Liability Insurance
Act 49 (§2942 (b)) states that any constable or deputy constable who fails, neglects or refuses to maintain a current insurance policy as required, or to file proof thereof with the County Clerk of Courts, shall cease automatically to be certified to perform judicial duties upon the expiration of the policy of which proof has been filed with the County Clerk of Courts. To ensure uninterrupted constable certification, it is essential that every constable file a new certificate of insurance with the County Clerk of Courts before the current insurance policy expires.
Re-Election/Election Certificates and Appointment Orders
To ensure continued, uninterrupted certification, if your term of office ended on December 31, 2020, you must forward a copy of your new election certificate from the County Board of Elections to the PCCD via email, mail or fax to: Bureau of Training Services, Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency, PO Box 1167, Harrisburg, PA 17108-1167; Fax (717) 783-7140. If you are a constable or deputy constable who has been newly appointed or re-appointed, you must forward a copy of your new appointment order signed by the President Judge or designee of the Court of Common Pleas, to the address above. Constables are reminded that they must file reappointment paperwork with the Courts relative to their Deputy Constables’ appointment.
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Constables’ Education and Training Board
2021 Constable Training Curriculum
80-Hour BASIC TRAINING
All newly elected constables or appointed deputy constables are required, under Act 49-2009 §7142(a) to attend and successfully complete Basic Training in order to perform judicial duties and be paid. Constables and appointed deputy constables must be registered with PCCD. For more information, please visit PCCD’s website at www.pccd.pa.gov or telephone PCCD, at (717) 265-8551, (717) 265- 8552 or (717) 265-8554.
At the February 14, 2019 Constables Education and Training Board (Board) Meeting, the Board voted a constable or deputy constable who is elected or appointed must pay for the expense of the Basic Training Course and the Basic Firearms Training Course starting January 1, 2020. The cost of a Basic Training Course and Basic Firearms Training Course will be determined by Program Staff and published yearly. For 2021, the cost of Basic Training is $1,125.00 and the cost of Basic Firearms is $1,485.00. The Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) approved this change at its September 11, 2019 meeting.
Refer to Title 37 Law, Chapter 431, for Regulations relating to the certification of constables and deputy constables. To successfully complete Basic Training, an individual must attend and participate in all training as scheduled during the same training year, achieve a passing score of at least 70% on each written examination administered during the Course, and successfully demonstrate practical skills during each proficiency examination. Constables and deputy constables are tested in each of the subjects listed below. An individual who receives less than 70% on any written exam will have only one opportunity to re-test in that subject. If an individual fails the re-test, that individual has failed the Basic Training Course and will not be certified by the Board.
Basic Training will consist of instruction in the following subjects: Role of the Constable in the Justice System, Professional Development, Civil Law and Process, Criminal Law and Process, Use of Force, Mechanics of Arrest, Defensive Tactics, Prisoner Transport and Custody, Court Security, Crisis Intervention, Management of Aggressive Behavior (MOAB), Expandable Baton, and Oleoresin Capsicum (OC).
Role of the Constable in the Justice System (4-Hours) This block of instruction provides an overview of the evolutionary development of the constable in Pennsylvania. It clarifies the constable’s legal responsibilities, as well as identifying civil liability issues that may affect the office of the constable. In addition, constables are presented with a working knowledge of the Pennsylvania justice system. This Course includes a written examination.
Professional Development I – Formal Communication (4-Hours) Formal communications are an important skill in any profession. Given the position of the constable in Pennsylvania's judicial system it is especially important for constables to understand the importance of formal communications and how it impacts their day-to-day operations. The Course includes an introduction to basic interview skills along with the basic principles of report writing. This Course includes a written examination.
Professional Development II – Professional Conduct (4-Hours) This Course was developed to facilitate constables' understanding of the issues of professional conduct and how they impact their day-to-day operations. The Course presents an introduction to the development of moral standards and the importance of ethics for constables. Other specific areas that are discussed include individual
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Constables’ Education and Training Board
responsibility and standards, relationships with the community and cultural diversity. This Course includes a written examination.
Civil Law and Process (12-Hours) This instruction focuses on many of the constable’s duties in the area of civil procedure, including service of process. The topic considers procedural rules that are applicable throughout the Commonwealth under Title 246, Minor Court Civil Rules, while directing constables to be cognizant of local rules and customs. Specific emphasis is placed on the citation of rules of Chapters 200, 300, 400, 500, 800, and 1200. Additionally, Title 42. Chapter 62A. Protection of Victims of Sexual Violence or Intimidation (Act 25 of 2014, which became effective July 1, 2015) will be reviewed. This Course includes a written examination.
Criminal Law and Process (8-Hours) This Course introduces constables to the history and development of criminal law in Pennsylvania. Constables’ specific duties within the criminal process are highlighted, as well as their authority and responsibilities in the areas of arrest, accountability for property and monies, and the most current law dealing with constable authority. This Course includes a written examination.
Use of Force (4-Hours) This training provides the constable with working knowledge in the areas of both lethal and non-lethal use of force. Recent case law pertinent to use-of-force issues is presented. This Course includes a written examination.
Mechanics of Arrest (8-Hours) This Course is designed to provide the constable with proper techniques for the arrest of compliant and noncompliant persons. These techniques utilize subject control holds and takedowns and direct the constable to perform the arrest from a position of advantage. The constable will be provided proper handcuffing and searching techniques for compliant and non-compliant individuals. This Course includes a written examination.
Defensive Tactics (10-Hours, 30-Minutes) This 10-hour and 30-minute block of instruction presents the constable with techniques for self-defense against armed and unarmed attackers. The defensive techniques presented include basic patterns of movement, reactionary gap/interview stance, ground fighting (offensive and defensive), arm locks, defense against gun disarms, blocking techniques, hand and arm striking skills, and kicking skills. Constables must come prepared for physical activity and dressed appropriately. In addition, this session provides the constable with techniques for retaining the holstered handgun from attack. These techniques will also provide the constable with the ability to prevent attacks on his/her holstered handgun. Each constable must demonstrate a working knowledge of each technique. The constable must supply his/her duty belt and holster. This Course includes a written examination.
Prisoner Transport (4-Hours) This Course provides Pennsylvania's constables with the procedures to properly handle prisoners in correctional facilities, in the transport vehicle or van, during movement, and throughout escort into court. The training also addresses numerous variables of prisoner transport, including constable safety, prisoner movement preparations, proper control and restraint, and special considerations such as pregnant or suicidal prisoners. The Course includes discussion on movement and transportation issues based on several actual incidents that have occurred throughout the United States. This segment provides constables with actions and precautions that they can employ to reduce the possibility that a prisoner will escape their custody or that a problem will occur during transport. This Course includes a written examination.
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