Edmond starts 19-week police academy

“We guarantee when they graduate they will be prepared.”

Sgt. Jeff Richardson, coordinator of the academy, said getting into the academy is extremely competitive.

“We get absolutely the top,” Richardson said.

The cadets were received during a ceremony at the Edmond police training facility before more than 30 officers.

The other cadets are Christopher Brown, 27, Jason Albright, 29, Brenton Brown, 27, Travis Eastbourne, 35, and Micah Yost, 24.

All six cadets have bachelor's degrees, and two have master's degrees.

One cadet spent five years as a police officer and sergeant with the Lawton Police Department.

One is a 14-year veteran of the U.S. Air Force and a recipient of 12 medals and citations during his military career, including the Meritorious Service Medal.

Another received eight medals and citations, including a Bronze Star, in the National Guard.

One cadet is fluent in German.