49 police recruits join the Springfield Police and the Hampden County Sheriff's Department

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Over the last 6 months, more than 40 men and women pursued an extensive journey in joining law enforcement. For some, it was to keep a legacy alive.

"My dad was a retired lieutenant, 30 years in the Connecticut Department of Corrections," said Tyreese Thomas, Springfield Police Recruit.

For others, it was the passion to serve the community in ways that a correctional officer can not.

"I've been with the Sheriff's department for a while now, for 14 years. Now I want to continue serving my community on the other side of the walls," said Ana Silva, Hampden County Sheriff`s Department Recruit.

After the National Anthem, inspections, prayers, and words from Springfield Police Superintendent Lawrence Akers, Mayor Domenic Sarno, and Hampden County Sheriff Nick Cocchi, the recruits were able to mark a milestone in front of families and friends.

49 police recruits graduated from class #0525. 45 of them will be joining the Springfield police department, and 4 of them will be joining the Hampden County Sheriff's Department.

All of them were directed by Former Academy Director, David Kane, for his 5th and final class.
He's passing the baton to Springfield Police Captain Brian Beliveau.

As Kane transitions into the role of Springfield Police Deputy Chief, David Kane is confident that the recruits will help fill the gaps in law enforcement recruitment.

"This is the largest police class that we've had in probably 20 years," said David Kane, Springfield Police Deputy Chief.

With Springfield Police Academy Class #0525 being one of the largest graduating classes, more law enforcement officers will be on the streets, while others will be given the chance to retire.

"If we get another 2 or 3 classes of this size in Springfield, we're going to be all set. and if they start off with this much drive and ambition as this class did. Springfield is on its way up," said Kane.

Field training is the next phase for this class of recruits. The next Springfield Police Academy class will begin sometime between Thanksgiving and Christmas.