Chattanooga, September 5, 2025
News Summary
The Chattanooga Police Department has celebrated the graduation of 14 cadets from a rigorous 22-week training program at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. The program surpasses state requirements and focuses on community needs, covering important topics like cultural diversity and emergency vehicle operation. Following graduation, 13 officers will enter a 16-week field training phase, while one graduate will join the Chattanooga Fire Department. Chief John Chambers emphasized the commitment of these new officers to serve and protect the community.
Chattanooga
The Chattanooga Police Department (CPD) has celebrated the graduation of 14 cadets from an intensive 22-week training program designed to prepare them for service in the community. The ceremony took place at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Fine Arts Center, a venue provided through cooperative support from the UTC Department of Criminal Justice.
The CPD training program is notable for exceeding the requirements set by the Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) and aligning with the standards established by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). This dedication helps ensure that the cadets receive comprehensive training that exceeds standard expectations.
Throughout the program, cadets received specialized instruction tailored to address the unique needs of the Chattanooga community. Instructional topics included cultural diversity, firearms proficiency, constitutional law, emergency vehicle operation, and various scenario-based exercises aimed specifically at enhancing officer safety and building community trust.
The CPD academy is recognized as one of only four such training facilities in Tennessee, highlighting the significance of its role in educating new law enforcement professionals. After graduation, 13 of the new officers will begin a 16-week field training period alongside experienced CPD Field Training Officers, emphasizing practical, on-the-job learning. In a related development, one graduate has opted to join the Chattanooga Fire Department’s Fire Investigations Division as an investigator.
During the graduation ceremony, the CPD expressed gratitude to the University of Tennessee for hosting and supporting the event. Chief John Chambers welcomed the graduates into the ranks of the CPD and acknowledged their commitment to the law enforcement profession and their dedication to serving the Chattanooga community.
Training Program Highlights
- Duration: 22 weeks
- Topics Covered: Cultural diversity, firearms proficiency, constitutional law, emergency vehicle operation, scenario-based exercises
- Post-Graduation Training: 16 weeks of field training for 13 graduates
- New Role: One graduate to join Chattanooga Fire Department as an investigator
- Accreditation: Program exceeds POST requirements, aligns with CALEA standards
- Academy Status: One of only four in Tennessee
Background Information
The formation of robust training programs is crucial for the development of competent law enforcement professionals. Programs that exceed state standards help to foster a sense of trust and safety within the community. The CPD has established itself as a leader in providing comprehensive training to its new recruits, focusing on both the technical skills needed for police work and the interpersonal skills necessary for community engagement.
FAQ Section
What is the duration of the CPD training program?
The training program lasts for 22 weeks.
What topics are covered in the training program?
Key topics include cultural diversity, firearms proficiency, constitutional law, emergency vehicle operation, and scenario-based exercises.
What happens after graduation for the new officers?
Thirteen of the graduates will undergo 16 weeks of field training with experienced CPD Field Training Officers.
How many academies are there like the CPD in Tennessee?
The CPD academy is one of only four such training academies in Tennessee.
What role will one of the graduates pursue?
One graduate will join the Chattanooga Fire Department as an investigator in the Fire Investigations Division.
Key Features of the CPD Training Program
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Program Duration | 22 weeks |
| Accreditation | Exceeds POST requirements, aligns with CALEA standards |
| Unique Aspects | Focus on community-specific needs |
| Topics Covered | Cultural diversity, firearms, constitutional law, emergency operations |
| Post-Graduation Training | 16 weeks of field training with CPD officers |
| Chattanooga Fire Department Role | One graduate will serve as investigator in Fire Investigations Division |
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Additional Resources
- Local 3 News: 14 Cadets Graduate from Chattanooga Police Academy
- Wikipedia: Training in Law Enforcement
- Chattanooga Pulse: Chattanooga Police Department Graduates 19 New Cadets
- Google Search: Chattanooga Police Department
- Times Free Press: Revived Chattanooga Police Outreach Program
- Google Scholar: Chattanooga Police Academy
- Local 3 News: Chattanooga Police Celebrate Graduation of 19 Cadets
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Police Training
- News Channel 9: Chattanooga Police Cadet Charged with DUI
- Google News: Chattanooga Police Cadets
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
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