NORWICH – The Chenango County Sheriff's Office (CCSO) held a graduation ceremony on Tuesday, and representatives from Broome, Chenango, and Cortland counties along with New York State Senator Fred Akshar and Chenango County Sheriff Ernest Cutting spoke at the event.

The celebration was held at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, at the CCSO, and out of the 13 of graduates three were from Chenango County.

At the event, Sheriff Ernest Cutting spoke about the journey from recruit to corrections office, and the importance of staying well trained and aware when surrounded by individuals who may be at the lowest point in their lives.

"We're here today for corrections officer academy graduation, and after 10 weeks I'm proud to commend this class and the outstanding young men in it," said Cutting. "I've seen them training throughout the 10 weeks here, and they've done an excellent job."

The sheriff said while they've done an excellent job in the academy, it's important that they remain vigilant while on duty.

"What you learn in the field, will be challenged here at a daily basis," said Cutting. "The inmates have 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and in some cases 365 days a year to plan."

"Sometimes we oversee people will spend the rest of their lives thinking about the terrible things they've done," said Cutting. "They can suffer from medical or mental health issues without friends of family to rely on."