Fifteen Graduate from the 62nd Springfield Police Academy

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. -- Graduation ceremonies for the officers of the 62nd Springfield Police Academy was Friday, July 20th, at the Praise Assembly Church in Springfield.

The 15 graduates have undergone 1,019 hours (25 weeks) of intense law enforcement training. Upon graduation, they will be assigned to an experienced field-training officer for approximately 520 hours (13 weeks) of on-the-job training.  

Once they complete the Field Training program, these new officers will be assigned to the Uniform Operations Bureau.

Springfield Police Chief Paul Williams says, "we've been waiting for them, had before the first of the year started the academy the 1st of January so its been a long road for them so we're thankful they're getting ready to get out here and join their brothers and sisters on the police force." Williams added the department is still short 13 officers.

Here's a breakdown of this year's recruits:

12 Males

3 Females

13 White

1 African American

1 Asian American

Their education and experience include:

1 Associates Degree

7 Bachelors Degree

2 Masters Degree

2 Previously Class A POST Certified

2 Prior or Current Military