The College of the Florida Keys’ Institute for Public Safety held a graduation ceremony for Basic Law Enforcement Academy 90 on Oct. 11 at the Key West campus. Eighteen cadets successfully completed the 770-hour training program. Upon passing the state certification exam, each will be eligible to become a Florida law enforcement officer.
Through partnerships with the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office and the Key West Police Department, all graduates already have jobs. During the ceremony, Monroe County Sheriff Rick Ramsay and Key West Police Chief Sean Brandenburg each swore in nine cadets.
Cathy Torres, CFK director of public safety, recognized top performing graduates with special accolades. The leadership award was given to class captain Daniel Wright, while Ross Hughes was recognized for his academic achievement. The “Top Gun” shooting skills award went to Russell Holmes, and Rudolfo Castillo Perez received the physical fitness award. The “PIG” award, which recognizes pride, integrity and guts, went to Johnasia Harris.
CFK’s law enforcement officer program satisfies the training requirements of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission. CFK is accepting applications for two upcoming training academies at the Upper Keys Center. Applications are due on March 28, 2025, for Basic Law Enforcement Academy 93, starting in May 2025 and ending in March 2026. The college is also accepting applications for Crossover Corrections to Law Enforcement Academy 37 through Jan. 31, 2025 for training that will run from March to October 2025. More information is at cfk.edu.
