The Pinebluff Police Department welcomed law enforcement officers from across Moore County for a specialized training session led by Assistant District Attorney John Bandle, an expert in narcotics prosecution and courtroom legal articulation.
The class, held Friday morning at the Pinebluff Police Department, focused on improving officers’ ability to effectively document and present observations in legal settings. A total of 14 officers participated in the training, which was offered free of charge thanks to Bandle volunteering his time.
Bandle, who serves as an Assistant District Attorney for North Carolina’s Prosecutorial District 33, has more than two decades of experience prosecuting narcotics cases and has trained local, state, and federal agencies nationwide. He is also currently completing a textbook on legal articulation for law enforcement officers.
“This was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for officers to learn from someone who not only prosecutes these cases but also works in the field as a legal attaché,” said a representative from the Pinebluff Police Department. “We’re grateful to ADA Bandle for sharing such a wealth of knowledge with us.”
The training emphasized the importance of non-conclusory, fact-based report writing, search warrant applications, and courtroom testimony. Officers explored how different jurisdictions interpret narcotics-related opinion testimony and learned how to better explain the significance of evidence to judges and juries — including items like digital scales, drug presses, and the estimated street value of seized substances.
The class also included interactive discussion and real-world examples to help officers better distinguish between drug user and dealer behavior, articulate probable cause, and work more effectively with prosecutors.
The Pinebluff Police Department extended its thanks to all agencies who sent officers and expressed appreciation to ADA Bandle for his commitment to supporting and educating law enforcement.
“This training makes our officers better prepared and ultimately strengthens the communities we serve,” the department said.