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The ��Ӱֱ�� State Police Academy celebrated the graduation of six Peace Officers at a ceremony held recently. The group included Wendy Clemons, Nicholas Gudyka, Thomas Sellers, Jr., Janet St. George, Dominic Lucarelli, and Cody Schneider.

A peace officer enforces laws and ordinances. They may also investigate crimes. They can make arrests, conduct investigations, issue citations for traffic violations, and respond to emergency calls such as domestic violence incidents or fires.

The Peace Officer Academy mirrors the first six weeks of the ��Ӱֱ�� State Police Academy where cadets learn the powers of a Peace Officer, NYS Penal Law, NYS Criminal Procedure Law, De-escalation (where they will learn ways to defuse a tense situations), ethics and professionalism, defensive tactics, how to use minimal force to gain compliance without causing injury to either party involved, and use of force. Cadets will also receive instruction on Laws of arrest, interview and interrogation, discretionary powers, use of Narcan for opioid overdoses, fundamental crisis intervention skills, report writing, and professional communications.

All six of the graduates have secured positions:
Wendy Clemons: Cattaraugus County Probation
Nicholas Gudyka: NYS Department of Health
Thomas Sellers, Jr.: NYS Department of Motor Vehicles
Janet St. George: Steuben County Probation
Dominic Lucarelli: Chemung County Probation
Cody Schneider: Allegany County Probation

Scott Richardson was proud of the cadets, “These students excelled in the program, and they have gained the knowledge and tools needed to be successful in their positions. I am proud of their efforts and wish them the best in their endeavors.”

The graduation featured opening remarks by Richardson and Vice President for Student and Employee Affairs Dr. Greg Sammons before Probation Supervisors Jessica McKnight and Carey Brown, delivered a keynote address. Richardson recognized each of the graduates and delivered the closing remarks.