The Elyria Police Department welcomed three new recruits this week as Tavon Kurtz, Sharon Smith, and Anthony Vicens were officially sworn in during a ceremony at City Hall. The three officers will begin training at the Cleveland Heights Police Academy on Friday.
Upon successful completion of the academy, the recruits will enter the department’s Field Training Program. This next phase provides new officers with hands-on experience under the guidance of senior officers before they transition to solo patrol duties.
Swearing in officers prior to the start of academy training is standard procedure across many departments, signifying their official commitment to public service. Recruits must still meet all state and departmental requirements, including completion of academy instruction and field training, before being granted full police authority.
The Elyria Police Department stated that it looks forward to the recruits’ progress and eventual contributions to public safety in the community. All three are expected to graduate from the academy later this year.