College graduates law enforcement academy

CFK’s Institute for Public Safety staff and graduates of Basic Law Enforcement Academy #73. JONATHAN GUEVERRA/Contributed

The College of the Florida Keys (CFK) held a graduation ceremony for Basic Law Enforcement Academy #73 completed through CFK’s Institute for Public Safety on September 4 at its Upper Keys Center in Tavernier. A total of 20 cadets successfully completed their respective training program. Upon passing the state certification exam, each will be eligible to become a Florida Law Enforcement Officer. 

Cathy Torres, Director of CFK’s Institute for Public Safety, recognized top performing graduates with special accolades. Class Captain Frederick Ferguson earned a Leadership award. Christopher Rufin was recognized for Academic Achievement. “Top Gun” honors went to Abiel Gomez for superior shooting skills. Ferguson and Stephanie Jerez received Physical Fitness awards, and the “PIG” award, which recognizes pride, integrity, and guts, went to Armando Guevara. 

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 currently accepting applications for two upcoming basic law enforcement academies that begin in January. One will be held at CFK’s Key West Campus and the other will be held at its Upper Keys Center in Tavernier. All of the classes are part-time, in the evening. Applications are due December 11.  

For more information about CFK’s Institute for Public Safety, visit the College’s website at https://www.cfk.edu/academics/academic-departments/institute-for-public-safety/.