Law Enforcement Academy graduates 18, honors 4

(Bradenton, FL—January 15, 2021) The Manatee Technical College Law Enforcement Academy graduated 18 recruits and bestowed 4 with honors on January 14, 2021.

Tiynek Baker was honored for his skills as class leader. Peyton Martin earned the Top Gun award for having the best firearms skills in the class. Michael Davis earned the highest academic achievement award with a GPA of 97.18. Josh Snow earned the award for the best driving skills. Snow was honored with a scholarship the night before by the Manatee Crime Stoppers.

Sheriff Rick Wells was the keynote speaker. Manatee County Sheriff’s Office sponsored 14 of the 18 recruits. It is anticipated that all the graduates will be hired by local law enforcement agencies. Representatives from many of those agencies were in attendance.

Holmes Beach Police Chief William Tokajer gave the invocation and benediction. Deputy superintendent Doug Wagner made opening remarks. MTC assistant director Dr. Jennifer Gilray and academy coordinator/instructor Mike Marchand joined them on stage to congratulate the graduates. Academy public service coordinator Lesley Chevalier presented the certificates. Academy director Jay Romine was the Master of Ceremonies.

Successful completion of the MTC Law Enforcement Academy makes one eligible to take the State Certification Examination for Law Enforcement, the required test to become a Certified Law Enforcement Officer in the State of Florida. The MTC Academy is approved by the Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.

The awards celebration took place in the auditorium of the new Parrish Community High School, where there was adequate space for social distancing.