Indian Valley Vocational Center

Law Enforcement

Instructor: Jim Kerry

Hi, my name is Jim Kerry, and I’m a retired law enforcement professional with a passion for preparing the next generation of criminal justice leaders. I began teaching at Indian Valley Vocational Center (IVVC) in November 2022 after a career that included service with the Aurora Police Department, the Kane County Sheriff’s Office, and the Hinckley Police Department. Working in both large and small agencies gave me a broad perspective on policing, community relationships, and the many ways officers serve the public. Although I’ve retired from active law enforcement, my commitment to service continues through teaching and mentoring.

Throughout my career, I gained experience in patrol, community policing, investigations, and court security. I also served as a Field Training Officer, Crisis Intervention Team Officer, patrol-level Evidence Technician, Public Information Officer, and Chaplain Program Liaison. These experiences shaped my belief that effective law enforcement begins with integrity, professionalism, compassion, and a genuine commitment to others.

At IVVC, my goal is to help students explore careers in law enforcement and criminal justice while developing the skills, confidence, and character to succeed. Through positive coaching, practical instruction, and mentoring, I encourage students to make informed, ethical decisions that will serve them well in their careers and throughout their lives.

Outside the classroom, I’m developing a project to introduce teens and young adults to law enforcement and help them stay engaged beyond high school. My goal is to support a new generation of motivated, well-prepared candidates who are ready to serve their communities when they become eligible.

LAW ENFORCEMENT I

Grades: 11, 12

Law Enforcement I is the first year of a two-year sequence.

Units of study - History of Law Enforcement, tools used in law enforcement, criminal law and offenses, Illinois Vehicle Code, including DUI and accidents, search and seizure, use of force, combat tactics and force mitigation, courts and courtroom procedures, crime scene investigations, firearms training, investigate crimes in progress

Tasks you will complete -

Record facts to prepare reports that document incidents and activities
Review facts of incidents to determine if criminal act or statute violations were involved
Gather information
Drill and ceremony used by military
Identify elements of a crime
Utilize resources to complete projects
Defend one's personal space
Respond to simulated crimes in progress
Simulate effective detainment of suspects and offenders
Conduct simulated searches of both people, property and vehicles

Skills/abilities you need to be successful - integrity, dependability, self-control, active listening, critical thinking, public speaking, one-to-one speaking, conflict resolution, reading comprehension, judgment and decision making, time management, writing, active learning, negotiation

Related careers - Sheriff, State Police, Conservation Officer, Federal Agent, Process Server, Bailiff, Parole Officer, Correctional Officer, Security Guard, Forensic Specialist, Detective, Private Investigator, Emergency Medical Tech, SWAT Officer, Juvenile Officer

Articulated Credit: KCC CRJ 101 - Introduction to Criminal Justice (3 credits)

LAW ENFORCEMENT II

Grade: 12

Required: 70% or higher in Law Enforcement I

Law Enforcement II is the second year of a two-year sequence.

Units of study - Investigating violent crimes, interviewing and interrogation, investigating crimes against children, investigating crimes against property, investigating terrorism, search and seizure, use of force, combat tactics and force mitigation, courts and courtroom procedures, crime scene investigations, firearms training

Tasks you will complete -

Record facts to prepare reports that document incidents and activities
Review facts of incidents to determine if criminal act or statute violations were involved.
Gather information
Identify elements of a crime
Utilize resources to complete projects
Defend one's personal space
Respond to simulated crimes in progress
Simulate effective detainment of suspects and offenders
Conduct simulated searches of both people, property and vehicles

Related careers - Sheriff, State Police, Conservation Officer, Federal Agent, Process Server, Bailiff, Parole Officer, Correctional Officer, Security Guard, Forensic Specialist, Detective, Private Investigator, Emergency Medical Tech, SWAT Officer, Juvenile Officer

Articulated Credit: KCC CRJ 201 - Criminal Investigations (3 credits)

Mr. Kerry can be reached at (815) 786-9873, extension 232, or by email at JKerry@ivvc.net.

Fair