Lexington, Ky. – Thirteen new officers have officially joined the Lexington Police Department, marking a significant step in efforts to strengthen community safety. This graduation ceremony took place on a recent morning, culminating more than 30 weeks of rigorous training for the recruits.
Among the graduates, Mckenzie Maawac expressed readiness to address challenges on the streets. “It’s one of the most difficult things I’ve ever done, going to this academy,” she stated, emphasizing the rewarding nature of the experience. Fellow recruit Kenneth Wheatley, a military veteran, noted that the training not only prepared him for police work but also created a sense of family among the recruits.
Officer Rachel Kennedy, associated with the Recruit Academy, highlighted the department’s enhanced recruitment initiatives aiming to attract qualified individuals from across the country. She underscored the department’s focus on diversity, ensuring that community members can see themselves represented within the police force. Following a notable shortage in police personnel throughout 2023, the department is proactively seeking new candidates and plans to initiate another recruitment class soon.
The newly graduated officers will now enter a 15-week field training phase as probationary officers, where they will further hone their skills. Officer Kennedy assured the community that ongoing training will equip the officers to build trust with citizens amidst the evolving landscape of law enforcement.
