Ranger Townsend Receives Full Commission

The wheels of government are slow to turn, especially for anyone waiting for their approval to be commissioned as a Special Peace Officer in the state of North Carolina.

Since his arrival at Lake James State Park back in December, 2021, Ranger Robert Townsend has been singularly focused on the long process of becoming a certified law enforcement officer as is required of all North Carolina State Park Rangers. After graduating McDowell County Community College’s 18-week Basic Law Enforcement Training in May and passing the state exam, Ranger Townsend has immersed himself in everything that is being a park ranger except law enforcement.

Now that he’s been sworn in, Ranger Townsend has added the duties of enforcing park rules and state statutes, including the power to arrest, to his expanding list of responsibilities.

We congratulate Ranger Townsend on his dedication to the successful completion of this difficult process and thank him for the commitment he has made to protecting the park and its visitors.