(Pierre) -The South Dakota Law Enforcement Academy graduated 37 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.

"It is pleasing to see that we have such high quality officers in South Dakota. They can truly make a difference in each of our communities," said Attorney General Mark Barnett. Barnett was the speaker at the graduation ceremony.

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.

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