Walters State Community College celebrated the graduation of Class 132 from the Walters State Regional Law Enforcement Training Academy on June 6. Fifty cadets completed the course, including one from DeKalb County.

Based at the college’s Niswonger Campus in Greeneville, the academy is an intensive nine-week course, providing over 500 hours of training. Upon completion, students are awarded the technical certificate in Basic Law Enforcement Officer Education. Once employed by a law enforcement agency, graduates are eligible to apply for certification by the Police Officers Standards and Training Commission as a certified peace officer in the state of Tennessee. The academy is part of the college’s Public Safety Center of Emphasis, a designation recognizing its outstanding record in career preparation.

Among the graduates were Levi Cantrell of Smithville, with the Dekalb County Sheriff’s Office.

Awards were given to outstanding students in established disciplines.

Academic Award: Seara Brooks, Clarksville Police Department.

Defensive Tactics Award: Ashton Lebel, Franklin Police Department.

J.R. Ensor Firearms Award: Brian Corcoran, Clarksville Police Department.

Charles Edward Baskette Memorial Award for Courage and Determination: Lisa Haislip, Sevier

   County Sheriff’s Office.

Best Athlete: Seth Walters, Clarksville Police Department.

Defensive and Tactical Driving: Caleb Young, Johnson City Police Department.

David Purkey Leadership Award: Ryan Anderson, Clarksville Police Department.

Tennessee Association of Chiefs of Police Award: Jonathon Long, Mt. Juliet Police Department.

Tennessee Sheriff’s Association Award: Chad McFarland.