Friday’s graduation ceremony for the Abilene Police Department Academy No. 49 was marked by many firsts.
The group was Chief Stan Standridge’s first, and the cadets were the first class to give a donation to a member of the community, Love & Care Ministries.
“It’s exciting to see that even before they graduated, they gave an example of what it means to serve those they protect by giving Pastor Mark Hewitt a love offering,” Standridge said. “These new officers embody what makes this community so unique — which is Christian values carried …

The Central Texas Regional Police Academy at Central Texas College is conducting information sessions this week for anyone interested in enrolling in the 2010 Extended Basic Peace Officer Course beginning in October.
This part-time, 10-month course is conducted in the same manner as the full-time, 20-week, Basic Peace Officer course.
The information/question and answer/background session are required for any interested potential cadets.
The final two sessions will be at 7 p.m. today and Thursday in room 104 of the Criminal Justice building, No. 113, on the CTC campus.
Information and background packages will be …

A badge and blue uniform aren’t handed out to just anyone. The Midland Police Academy is a grueling 18 weeks plus an additional 18 weeks of “on-the-job” training in addition to required state exams. During the 2008 oil boom officials say it was difficult to find enough men and women willing and able to make the cut.
“Over the last few years we’ve stayed right at about 15-20 officers short.” Sgt. Greg McCright, who heads up recruiting at MPD said the latest police academy may add 12 officers to the force.
“Not …