Officer Anthony Kent worked with the Harrison Police Department (HPD) from 2011 to 2015 and returned two years ago. He has been involved in full-time law enforcement since 2008, with time split between HPD and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office.
Kent is also an instructor in law enforcement and firearms and a field training officer. He holds EMT certification and is a nationally certified car seat safety technician.
He initially went to college to become a teacher but changed his major to law enforcement administration with more than 2,000 hours of training since 2008 to prepare for the position he holds today as SRO at Forest Heights Elementary.
“I love connecting with the kids and building relationships. Some kids have much, and some have very little, but they all need to feel loved and safe. It’s very rewarding to be there for them,” he said.
“I wasn’t fearful of working with kids because I’m a dad first and an officer second. My kids are still young, so I’m used to it.”
“I’d like to tell parents not to be afraid to ask for help. We have many resources available, ranging from car seat safety to general training. When it comes to the safety of your kids, we want to be the best we can be, and we can’t do it without your help.”
He continued, “Also, keep those littles buckled in, and buckle them in according to their age/weight. Lastly, I’d ask you not to use police officers as a ‘scare tactic’ when disciplining your kids. This causes kids to fear us and may prevent them from trusting us if they need help. We want them to know we are here for them and want them to feel safe, not scared.”
When asked what do you like to do for fun? Officer Kent said, “This job is fun! Outside of that? I love playing old country and bluegrass music and spending time with my family. I also love being outdoors!”
Forest Heights Principal Mark Ditmanson said, “Officer Kent does an amazing job building relationships with students at Forest Heights. He always helps staff members and students in the school. I appreciate how he maintains a safe and secure environment on campus, and he does it with a smile every day.”
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