Forty-Nine recruits graduate from the 69th Providence Police Department Training Academy
PROVIDENCE. RI- Mayor Jorge Elorza, Commissioner of Public Safety Steven M. Paré, Police Chief Colonel Hugh T. Clements, Jr., members of the Providence Police Department and City officials gathered at Bishop McVinney Auditorium on Saturday, June 22nd for the graduation ceremony of the 69th Providence Police Department Training Academy.
After an extensive selection process and the completion of 24-weeks and 812 hours of training, these 49 men and women now have the honor and distinction of being a sworn member of the Providence Police Department. The demographic has changed dramatically within the department over the past several years, as we have had back-to-back graduations of two of the most diverse academies in the department’s history, with a total of 106 officers joining the force.
“I commend the 69th Providence Police Department Training Academy on the completion of their training,” said Mayor Jorge O. Elorza. “Providence has one of the best police departments in the nation because our force knows they are more than police officers, they are key community leaders in the neighborhoods they serve. The most serious forms of crime have decreased to historic lows because of outstanding police work and we know that additional officers will strengthen efforts to keep our city safe.”
“This is a remarkably proud day for this department and the city,” said Colonel Clements. “After six months of rigorous training, which is a taxing on both you and your families, you have certainly earned your way onto one of the finest police departments in the nation. Now, it is time for you to use the skills you have attained throughout your training and continue working together to serve the citizens of the great city of Providence.”
The Providence Police Department Training Academy is overseen by Major Oscar Perez and under the command of Captain Kevin Lanni, who are both highly respected and decorated members of the department that have served in a number of capacities throughout their careers.
Additionally, the training instructors in the academy include a diverse group of experienced, dedicated and well-rounded officers, Deputy Director Sergeant John Kennedy, Sergeant John Paul Rimoczy, Detective Jose Pineda, Detective Kevin Costa, Officer Sean Brown, Officer Tracie Miller and Officer Taylor Britto. Sergeant Kenneth Vinacco, who is retiring at the end of the year after 39 years of service, was the defensive tactics instructor for the academy.
Additional information about the 69th PPD Training Academy can be found in the Graduation Program Booklet.