GPD OFFICER GRADUATES FROM REGIONAL LAW ENFORCEMENT ACADEMY
GATLINBURG, Tenn.—A new member of the Gatlinburg Police Department will soon be serving and protecting the citizens and visitors of the City.
Officer Colton Wade graduated from the Regional Law Enforcement Academy in Blount County on Friday, November 1. Wade was part of the Academy’s 29th graduating class to become POST certified. Throughout the 12-week Academy, officers are trained through 538 hours of instruction of law enforcement training, including criminal law, community relations, patrol tactics, defensive tactics, emergency vehicle operations, firearms training, as well as additional law enforcement related topics. Academy graduates are also required to meet physical fitness standards in several categories, including a 1.5 mile run, a 300-meter run, and an obstacle course.
“The Police Department is very proud that Officer Wade was exemplary during his time at the Academy and we look forward to him joining the force to protect and serve the City,” Gatlinburg Police Chief Ronnie Barrett said.
Following his graduation, Officer Wade will now complete field training with other officers of the Gatlinburg Police Department before joining the patrol on their own.
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