Law Enforcement Academy Graduation

(Pierre) –The South Dakota Law Enforcement Academy graduated 32 officers today.

All officers of the Academy must complete a 12 week, 520 hour program.  The curriculum includes training in emergency vehicles operations, firearms, accident investigation, community oriented policing, ethics, and patrol procedures.

Upon completion of the training, students are certified as law enforcement officers in South Dakota.  Those attending the academy represent agencies from all across the state.

“This is truly a great group of officers. The communities are lucky to be getting such quality additions to their law enforcement centers,” said Chief Deputy Attorney General Larry Long.  Long was the keynote speaker at the graduation ceremony.

Officer Larry Rohlf  was chosen by the class to receive the Inspiration Award. Officer William Lammon was honored with the Top Gun Award for being the top shooter during firearms qualification. And Officer Verla Nicholas received the Coler-Williams Memorial Award for all-around excellence.

The Law Enforcement Academy is under the supervision of the Attorney General’s Office, Division of Criminal Investigation.  The training program is governed by the Law Enforcement Officers Standards and Training Commission. 

-30-