WHITTIER – Río Hondo Police Academy will celebrate the graduation of 47 cadets in Class No. 208 during a special ceremony at 10 a.m. Thursday, July 25 at the San Gabriel Mission Playhouse. The class, which includes 10 women, is the largest since 2014.

“Río Hondo College is proud to celebrate the success of these incredible men and women, who are dedicating their lives to protect and serve our communities,” Superintendent/President Dr. Arturo Reyes said. “Their dedication underscores Río Hondo College’s mission to provide students with pathways to living-wage careers that impact our community.”

The students underwent six months of intensive training in constitutional law, criminal law, domestic violence, procedure justice, traffic enforcement, emergency vehicle operations, tactical first aid and CPR, mental health, lifetime fitness, firearms, among other subjects mandated by Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST).
More than 60 cadets started the training on Feb. 12

“These graduating cadets represent the best of the best,” Police Academy Director Walter Allen III said. “Their training is among the most rigorous anywhere. Their achievements, in light of the challenges they faced over the last six months, will prepare them for the challenging task of protecting our communities.”

Thirty-five cadets were sponsored by area police departments – a recognition of the strength of Río Hondo College’s police training program. Sponsoring departments include Azusa, Burbank, Bell Gardens, Cal State Northridge, El Segundo, La Verne, La Habra, Monrovia, Montebello, Pasadena, San Fernando, San Gabriel, Santa Paula, Signal Hill, Simi Valley, South Gate, Vernon and West Covina.

The ceremony will include a processional, a presentation of the colors and an invocation. A keynote address will be given by Vernon Police Chief Anthony Miranda. In addition to receiving their certificates, cadets will also be recognized for fitness, marksmanship, academics and inspiration. An Honor Cadet award will be presented by Miranda.

“Río Hondo College is known across California for the strength of its public service career training in policing, firefighting and nursing,” Board of Trustees President Oscar Valladares said. “Each new class of graduates from our academies reinforces this hallmark of excellence.”