On February 13, the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) celebrated the graduation of 42 new state troopers. The ceremony was held at Hermitage Hills Baptist Church in Nashville, with Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security Commissioner Jeff Long and THP Colonel Matt Perry in attendance.
The trooper cadet class, known as Class 225, completed an 18-week training program that surpassed the requirements set by the Tennessee Peace Officers Standards and Training (POST) Commission. Among the graduates were 17 individuals with prior military service, 6 with associate’s degrees, 17 with bachelor’s degrees, and 2 with master’s degrees. Additionally, the class organized a blood drive in collaboration with the American Red Cross.
Governor Bill Lee delivered the keynote address at the ceremony, and Commissioner Jeff Long administered the oaths of office to the new troopers. “Today we celebrated the hard work and perseverance these cadets demonstrated as they prepared to join one of the finest law enforcement agencies in the country,” stated Commissioner Long. He also commended the graduates for their commitment to serving and protecting the citizens of Tennessee.
Colonel Matt Perry highlighted the responsibilities and challenges that come with being a Tennessee State Trooper. He emphasized the importance of the tradition and legacy of service that has been part of the Highway Patrol since its inception in 1929.
Trooper Tabias Sirmones received special recognition as the top cadet of the class, earning the Trooper Calvin Jenks Memorial Award for Excellence. This award acknowledges leadership, work ethic, and academic achievement, and is named in memory of Trooper Calvin Jenks, who was killed in the line of duty in January 2007.
The ceremony marked a significant milestone for the new troopers as they embark on their careers in law enforcement, dedicated to upholding the safety and security of the community.
Source: Read Original Release
MNPD Opens Applications for Spring 2025 Community Police Academy
The Metropolitan Nashville Police Department is accepting applications for its 54th Community Police Academy session, a 12-week program starting March 4, 2025, designed to educate Nashville residents on police operations. The academy includes guest speakers from specialized units and practical experiences such as ride-alongs, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of police work. Applicants must be Davidson County residents, at least 18 years old, with no arrest record, and commit to attending at least 9 of the 12 weeks. Applications are due by February 28, 2025, and can be submitted via the hubNashville website.