Howell Officer Graduates From Police Academy

Michael Sceppaguercio is one of the newest officers of Howell Township, recently graduating from the academy. (Photo courtesy Howell Police)

  FREEHOLD – After six months of training, a Howell officer – along with 27 other newly sworn law enforcement officers – have graduated from the Monmouth County Police Academy.

  Eighteen recruits of the 101st Basic Course for Police Officers and 10 recruits from the 52nd Basic Course for Class II Special Law Enforcement Officers received their police training commission certifications during a recent ceremony.

  “These fine men and one woman have demonstrated their commitment to law enforcement by persevering and successfully completing this intense training,” said Sheriff Shaun Golden, whose agency runs the Monmouth County Police Academy and had four recruits graduate. “Becoming a member of law enforcement is a great privilege, since there is no higher responsibility than maintaining public safety. I’m proud of their accomplishments and commend all for a job well done.”

  Out of the 28 graduates was Special Law Enforcement Class II Officer Michael Sceppaguercio, who trained while still employed as a 9-1-1 Telecommunicator with Howell Township Police Department.

  “Last year, he requested a meeting with me where he expressed his sincere desire to be a Howell police officer,” Howell Township Police Chief Andrew Kudrick said. “His strong work ethic, determination, positive and professional demeanor along with obstacles he overcame in his life inspired me. I knew he would be a perfect representation of the community we serve. I only select the best to wear our patch. He will undoubtedly uphold the long-standing tradition of excellence of our police department.”

A total of 28 recruits graduated from the Monmouth County Police Academy and sworn in as officers. (Photo courtesy Howell Police)

  All recruits train in patrol concepts, defensive driving, professional development, weaponry and unarmed defense, criminal investigation, ethics, emergency medical care and physical training, along with a host of other courses.

  “We welcome our newest police academy graduates to our Monmouth County law enforcement family,” Acting Monmouth County Prosecutor Lori Linskey said. “These graduates are choosing public service at a challenging time, knowing that they will have to earn the trust of the residents whom they will be serving. We have every expectation that they are up to this challenge and will serve their communities with honor and distinction.”

  “On behalf of the entire Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners, I would like to thank all of the Police Academy graduates for choosing a career in law enforcement and for the public service they will perform to protect our communities,” Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone said. “Monmouth County truly has the best law enforcement in the state and each of these graduates will contribute to that.”