First Class

First Class

Revived West Memphis Police Academy graduates seven in special ceremony

news@theeveningtimes.com

Seven new police officers are patrolling in West Memphis after graduating from the city’s very own newly-reactivated police training academy. Thomas Evans, Michael Garrett, Jerimiah Mangum, Jimelle Nicks, Talitha Singleton, Tristan Williams and Austin Woolbright graduated during a special ceremony last week. The class heard the charge from Second District Prosecuting Attorney Scott Ellington.

Ellington pointed out the everyday real hazards for police and challenged the cadets before they walked for their certificates. The new police officers heard about commitment to safety, family and standards along with practical advice before they took their final oath.

“There have been great advances in technology that have made serving as a police officer safer, better radios, better dash cameras, text messaging, and body armor that have made police work better than when your chief went through,” said Ellington.

“But right now may be the most dangerous time to accept this responsibility. If you screw up, it’s going to be on the TV. You are coming in at a time where we need to be very conscious of what you do. Always make sure your camera is on in order to tell the story.”

According to Ellington virtuous living on and off the job counts.

“Always be courteous and genuine,” said Ellington, “Treat the people you encounter like you would want your mother to be treated. Always tell the truth, be known as a truth teller. Defense attorneys, judges and prosecutors know who doesn’t always tell the truth.

“Until you are needed you won’t be seen or appreciated. Patrol slowly as you get to know your neighborhood, when a call comes respond fast. Be confident and compassionate. Do your job with courage and certainty.”

Ellington offered some practical advice.

“Write a full and complete report; details keep you out of court,” said Ellington.

“Review the statutes you are charging and be concise.”

The prosecutor closed with a three point charge to the cadets, protect, take care, and be safe.

“Go forward to protect the innocent you are sworn to serve,” said Ellington.

“Take care of those at home because they worry about you. Take care of your spouse that they can be confident of your fidelity. Spend time with your children when you are not on duty.”

Ellington remembered the events May 20, 2010.

Sergeant Brandon Paudert and Officer Bill Evans were killed on Interstate 40 by a pair of sovereign citizen members. “They were doing their job,” said Ellington. “They did it correctly. We do not want to sit through another funeral of a police officer that died on duty. So, remember your most important job as a West Memphis Police officer is to end your shift and to go home safely to the ones you love.”

By John Rech