Winthrop Police Chief Terence Delehanty, Deputy Chief John Goodwin, and Lts. Steve Rogers and Mary Crisafi were present as 15 Winthrop residents received their certificates upon their graduation from the Winthrop Civilian Police Academy at a ceremony at the E.B. Newton School Building.
The graduates completed a 10-week educational program. Lt. Rogers has been the chief administrator for the last four WPD Civilian Academy programs. Retired Lt. David Lessard directed the first WPD Civilian Academy program.
During the program, Winthrop officers instructed classes on subjects such as domestic violence, police exploring, motor vehicle law, patrol procedures, accidents, firearms, critical incidents, implicit bias, gangs, juveniles and narcotic enforcement, prevention, and treatment, and many other topics relevant to police work. The Academy also included a police ride-along.
Among the graduates were two Winthrop town councilors, Hannah Belcher and Tracey Honan.
“The Citizen’s Police Academy made me so proud of all that WPD does, so much of which goes unseen by most of the community,†said Belcher. “We’re truly lucky to have such a dedicated police force who care so deeply about the town. I highly recommend that everyone take the course when they have a chance. Lieutenant Rogers does a phenomenal job of covering a wide variety of topics in modern policing in a way that’s both engaging and immensely informative.â€
Jill Dorr said she enjoyed taking the classes.
“Each week we were presented with various topics that detail how our Police Department operates,†said Dorr. “I have a newfound respect for what police officers face on a daily basis, and how they work together so cohesively. Lieutenant Rogers clearly spent countless hours putting this program together and it was very informative. Lieutenant Rogers emphasized that Chief Delehanty utilizes his officers based on their strengths/skill sets. It’s also great to see that the Police Explorers program seems to be growing and gaining support from the community. High school students should consider this if they want a career in law enforcement.â€
Civilian Academy graduate Vitor Marcos, 26, said he is hoping to pursue a career as a police officer.
“It’s been one of my dreams, since I came from Brazil in 2014, to become a police officer,†said Marcos. “This program has inspired me. I thank Lt. Rogers and the Winthrop Police for having this Academy. I love Winthrop. It’s the best town in Massachusetts.â€