The Knox County Sheriff’s Office Regional Training Academy graduated 25 recruits in a special ceremony on Thursday, Oct. 11.  The keynote speaker was Congressman Jimmy Duncan.

The graduating class went through 10 weeks of intense training to meet the criteria set by the Basic Police School.  While in school, students spent much of their time learning the law, arrest procedures, and community policing. They also developed expertise in the tools of the profession such as firearms, driving, and defensive tactics.

The ceremony also included the recognition of six exceptional recruits. The winners of the James Kennedy Outstanding Officer Award, the Mark Currier Achievement Award, and the winners of the Physical Fitness, Firearms Proficiency, Academic, and Driving awards were announced.

The Regional Training Academy was established in 1996 and since then has graduated 538 law enforcement officers. Sheriff Jimmy “J.J.” Jones said he is proud of all the recruits. “Each officer goes into the community with the skill and calm reason needed for such a demanding job,” said the Sheriff.

By Wes Hall