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Fairmont State’s Inaugural Class of Police Academy Cadets Graduate

Three local law enforcement officers were part of the first graduating class of Police Academy cadets at Fairmont State University.
Among the 15 cadets graduating May 5 were Caleb Minger of Brooke County Sheriff’s Dept. and Michael Nickerson and Nathan Taylor of the Wellsburg Police Dept.
The cadets arrived on Fairmont’s campus Jan. 16 to begin their 16-week course.
“During their 16 weeks at the Fairmont State University Police Academy, the cadets received the highest quality education and instruction from career law enforcement professionals, university professors and experts and specialists from throughout the communities of West Virginia,” said Jeffrey McCormick, Police Academy director.
“These instructors have thoroughly prepared the cadets to enter this noble profession, and are proud to share the wisdom and knowledge they have earned over their careers to help prepare the next generation of policing professionals to serve the citizens of West Virginia with honor and meet the unique challenges facing law enforcement today.”
Cadets received training in many areas of police work including patrol, traffic stops, criminal law, firearms, use of force, emergency vehicle operations, report writing, and much more.
Cadets were also exposed to other training important for modern day police officers in today’s society such as trauma awareness, interacting with those with autism and mental health conditions and de-escalation tactics.
Whenever possible the cadets put their training to the test by participating in realistic, scenario-based exercises.
“The cadets have performed very well,” McCormick said. 
“They have set a high bar for the cadets of the next session, which will begin in August to try to meet.
“The staff and instructors of the Fairmont State Police Academy are proud of what the cadets of Session 23-01 have accomplished, and we look forward to their successful careers serving and protecting the citizens of West Virginia.” 
While the first class of Police Academy cadets is exclusively compromised of non-degree seeking students sponsored by West Virginia law enforcement agencies, the Police Academy will also accept current and future degree-seeking students who meet the program requirements to be a part of future Police Academy classes.
Those who complete the program will be qualified to become certified law enforcement officers in the state of West Virginia.