[Clinton, N.C.] – Sampson Community College’s (SCC) Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) program has had the privilege of producing some of the finest law enforcement officers across North Carolina since 1985. One of those former students is Officer Claire Aspray, a 2020 BLET graduate who now serves with the UNC-Asheville campus police.
Graduating from Brevard College in 2015 with her Bachelors in Psychology, Martinez enrolled in the BLET program at SCC in 2020. A resident of Sampson County, Aspray voiced that she returned to school for law enforcement because she simply wanted to serve others.
“I chose to pursue a career in law enforcement because I wanted to help people,” Aspray explained. “I believe that helping people can be accomplished by building relationships with the community you work in and giving your best effort every day.”
Recalling her experience in the BLET program, Aspray noted that her favorite part was the “challenge” that it presented. While they were pushed both “physically and mentally,” she remarked, each recruit still enjoyed coming to class every day. She personally thanked Chief Anthony Davis, BLET Director/Instructor, Captain Robert Stroud, BLET Program Qualified Assistant (QA), and Officer Kitrell who “made it all possible” for her.
She praised, “All three of them believed in me and pushed me to be better. The instructors were great, I made lasting friendships, and I was well prepared for the state exam. I loved the program!”
In a quote, Davis remarked on Aspray’s time within BLET four years ago, stating that she truly excelled in every aspect, including academics, practical application, and physical fitness.
“Aspray was always willing to help out her fellow classmates and was well respected by her peers,” he remembered. “Getting into the law enforcement profession she aspired to make a difference in others and her community by becoming a police officer, I’m appreciative that she chose our program to assist her in reaching those goals.”
Echoing Davis’ thoughts, Stroud added, “Aspray was an outstanding cadet in the program. She was a high achiever academically. She always put forth her best effort and scored high marks. She more than exemplified the core values of the program. She conducted herself professionally, very humble and her integrity was never questioned. I know she will rise up through the ranks no matter what agency and community she serves.”
Graduating from SCC in June 2020, Aspray currently serves as a Patrol Officer with the UNC-Asheville police— a position she’s held since August 2020. Her focus is on community policing, with duties consisting of patrolling campus and answering calls for service. According to Aspray, no day is ever the same, so they must remain prepared for any situation.
The position also yields state benefits, including free tuition to any school in the UNC System. Aspray stated that she plans to use the tuition program to obtain her master’s degree starting in Fall 2024. Recently, she also submitted a proposal for development of a therapy dog program, and is currently in the process of bringing that to fruition as well.
Looking back, Aspray credits SCC’s BLET program with preparing her for success her current work. She highly recommends the program to other prospective students interested in law enforcement and mentioned that she would do it all again, because it was truly worth it.
“It’s one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. It’s not easy, but you’ll be glad you did it,” she lavished. “In fact, I think it’s probably one of the best programs in the state. I’m living and working in Western NC now and after talking to some of the officers here I’m glad I made the choice to come to SCC.”
Successful completion of the BLET curriculum certificate program requires that students satisfy the minimum requirements for certification by the North Carolina Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Commission, including 640-hours minimum of instruction and passing the POPAT course. Graduates will possess skills to function as a law enforcement officer in state, county, and municipal governments in North Carolina.
Sampson CC extends its appreciation to Officer Aspray for her service and commitment to ensuring the safety of college students on the UNC campus. The College is proud to have played a role in her career and looks forward to seeing all she will continue to do in law enforcement.
For more information about the BLET program or how to enroll, visit www.sampsoncc.edu/blet
About Sampson Community College: Sampson Community College is a member of the North Carolina Community College System, located in Clinton, NC in Sampson County. The college offers many programs to include two-year degrees, college transfer, continuing education and workforce development options and early college education. SCC is committed to the principles of equal educational and employment opportunities for all.
