Northwest Florida State College’s Law Enforcement Academy celebrated the graduation of 24 cadets who completed a comprehensive six-month, 785-hour training program last month.
- The graduates were sponsored by local law enforcement agencies, including the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office, Walton County Sheriff’s Office, Niceville Police Department and Northwest Florida State College Police Department.
Aaron Murray, the college’s chief of police, delivered the invocation at the ceremony. Board of Trustees members Maj. Gen. Don Litke, Ret. USAF, and Lyndsi Stevens attended to support the cadets.
“This graduating class reflects a continued tradition of excellence at the NWFSC Law Enforcement Academy where 70 graduates will have completed this program in 2025,” said Richard McCoy, law enforcement coordinator at NWFSC Public Safety Training Center. “Each cadet has demonstrated determination, discipline, and a commitment to public service. Our dedicated team of adjunct instructors — composed of both active and retired law enforcement professionals — play a critical role in shaping these recruits into capable and ethical officers.”
McCoy said the graduates are entering a demanding profession.
- “These graduates are entering a profession that demands integrity, resilience, and compassion,” McCoy said. “We are confident they will meet that challenge head-on and make a meaningful difference in the lives of the citizens they serve, and we are extremely proud of them for answering the call to serve.”
The Public Safety Training Center at NWFSC continues to serve as a regional leader in law enforcement education. The academy also offers training pathways for certified officers from other states seeking Florida certification.
For more information about the Law Enforcement Academy and other public safety programs offered at NWFSC, visit here.
One Response
I hope they have been trained that’s it’s unethical to shoot just because they are scared. Life is precious, taking one because you are afraid is no excuse!