35 new officers join western Massachusetts forces

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – A graduation ceremony was held at Springfield College for 35 new officers joining police departments in western Massachusetts.

The latest class of the Springfield Police Academy graduated at the Fuller Arts Center on the Springfield College Campus Thursday after 23 weeks of training. Twenty-five will join the Springfield Police Department, three Westfield Police Officers, three Hampden County Sheriff’s Department members, two Holyoke Police Officers, one Springfield College Police Officer, and one Greenfield Community College Police Officer.

All officers were sown in by Springfield City Clerk Gladys Oyola-Lopez who was joined by Springfield Police Superintendent Akers, Academy Director Kane, Springfield Mayor Sarno, and State Rep. Gonzalez, chair of the joint committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security all provided remarks.

“I’d like to thank Captain Kane and his Academy instructors for spending their last six months training our future officers.  Their dedication and professionalism play an integral role in developing these young men and women as they begin their careers in law enforcement.  Also, I’d like to congratulate these 35 recruits who have successfully made it through this arduous process, and I promise to provide them with the tools and support needed to flourish as police officers.  This group will be special to me as this is my first Academy Graduation as the Superintendent and I wish them continued success throughout their careers, said Springfield Police Superintendent Akers is a statement.”

Mayor Sarno said, “Congratulations to all of the graduating officers of our Springfield Police Academy Class #0424.  Superintendent Larry Akers and I want to thank and congratulate not only those graduating but their families as well.  Being a police officer is still an honorable and noble profession and the dedication and sacrifices made to protect and serve our community is deeply appreciated.  Under the leadership of Academy Director Captain David Kane, the 35 police officers graduating have the training and skills necessary to join their respective departments with the utmost professionalism, honor and distinction.  Congratulations and on behalf of the city of Springfield, wishing you continued success and God speed.”

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