Jayce Elliott
By Deby Jo Ferguson
Staff writer
The State Highway Patrol welcomed 18 new troopers at a graduation ceremony held on Friday, April 19 for the 162 Basic Highway Patrol School. This ceremony celebrated the new law enforcement officers on their accomplishment and decision to embark on a rewarding career of service to the state of North Carolina.
Speaking at graduation was Col. Freddy Johnson Jr. “This has been a challenging journey for each of you and your families as you sought out this worthy goal of service to the people of this state. As of this day the rewards will be daily as you know your mission of saving lives is being accomplished with every educational and enforcement opportunity that you face.”
Among these 18 graduates was Jayce Elliott, of Hayesville. Elliott is 21 years old, a Hayesville High School graduate and son of Jason and Deanna Elliott. He will report to Hendersonville, N.C. to begin his career as an officer for the SHP.
“After graduating from Hayesville High School I went to Tri-County Community College where I received an associate degree in criminal justice. I also went to Basic Law Enforcement Training school which was required before I could attend school to become a SHP officer,” Elliott said.
A career in law enforcement has always been something Elliott has thought about.
“I have always felt led to serve in some way and law enforcement is where I feel I can serve the best. I have always admired the way North Carolina State Troopers perform their job with professionalism and treat everyone with the utmost respect. All of that paired with the influence of family and close friends who are troopers helped me decide that being a state trooper is what I wanted to do,” he added.
Elliott shared his goals for the future and what he has gained from his training.
“Training to become a state trooper took 14 vigorous weeks, which has given me a higher level of confidence. I believe I was given the best possible training there is, therefore, I feel prepared to be moving forward in the field I have chosen. My goal is to be a positive influence and keep the roads of North Carolina safe,” Elliott said.
Elliott spoke of the support from family.
“Everyone has been extremely supportive of me and my decision to become a trooper. I wouldn’t have been able to make it through without all the prayers and love from my family. I’d like to say thank you to my parents and grandparents for pushing me to be the best man I can be,” he concluded.