The Providence Police Department has announced two new officers have graduated from the Department of Criminal Justice Training Academy.
Chief Todd Jones says Officer Eric Elder of Clay and Officer Jay Edwards of Dixon were officially sworn in as certified police officers at the 30th Cadet Class 519 Graduation Ceremony last week. He says both officers have completed five months of training which included extensive training in criminal law, firearms, defense tactics, police vehicle operations, physical fitness, breath test operations, handcuffing, verbal judo, along with many college-level academic classes.
Chief Jones says Officers Elder and Edwards were sworn in as un-certified officers of the Providence Police Department in October 2020. He notes because of the COVID-19 pandemic, they worked under supervision for the police department while waiting for the Academy to schedule their training. He says these two officers will start work in patrol and investigations with the Providence Police Department under his close supervision as well as Sergeant Carl Scheer and Officer Isaac Frias. Chief Jones adds that after completion of a FTO program and successful demonstration of the skills necessary to safely perform the required duties, Officers Edwards and Elder will be working on their own.
With the addition of Officers Edwards and Elder, Chief Jones says the Providence Police Department now has a total of five certified officers.
Chief Jones also thanked the two officers for following their hearts and wanting to make a difference in their community. He also thanked their families for their influence, support, and understanding as their child, husband, father, or brother has made a giant step toward fulfilling a dream.
