Las Cruces Police Academy certifies 18 new cadets

Friday, the Las Cruces Police Department certified its 43rd class of 18 cadets from its state-certified law enforcement training academy.

The cadets have completed more than 1,000 hours of stringent training and state examinations, which qualifies them to receive the New Mexico peace officer certification.

The 20-week program is 75 percent in-classroom training and 25 percent field experience. LCPD says its academy exceeds the requirements set by the New Mexico Department of Public Safety.

Graduates now will go through a 14-week assignment with an experienced field training officer.