The Huntsville Police Department (HPD) formally welcomed 11 new officers on Thursday as the 73rd Academy Session graduated after 19 weeks of intensive, hands-on training. The ceremony highlighted the department’s continued investment in public safety and professional standards across the city.
A New Class Prepared to Serve the Community
Held at the Alabama School of Cyber Technology and Engineering, the event brought together City leaders, HPD Command Staff, Academy Training Advisors, and dozens of family members supporting the new officers. The graduates marched in together before receiving their badges and beginning the next phase of their careers.
The newly sworn-in officers are:
Jacob Adams
Brett Driggers
Cecil Flanigan
David Kim
Edgar Montoya
Mark Moore
Justin Pratt
Noah Reed
Jabraun Rice
Jon Turis
Alexander Volesky
Leaders Emphasize Integrity, Professionalism, and Service
During the ceremony, HPD Chief Kirk Giles praised the recruits for the determination and character they demonstrated throughout the academy. He reminded the new officers that earning the community’s trust is a daily responsibility.
“All of us who wear this badge have a responsibility to not only carry the title of police officer, but to be worthy of it,” Chief Giles said. “Now, every day, you must earn the respect of your fellow officers as well as the citizens of Huntsville.”
Mayor Tommy Battle also spoke, reinforcing the city’s support for HPD and the high standards the department maintains.
“Our residents have confidence in their police officers because of the way HPD serves this city: with professionalism, compassion and an unwavering commitment to public safety,” Mayor Battle said. “You now join that legacy.”
Next Step: Field Training in Real-World Scenarios
With academy training complete, the graduates will now begin a 14-week Field Training Officer (FTO) program. This phase places the new officers alongside experienced FTOs as they apply classroom and scenario-based learning to real-world calls throughout Huntsville.
The completion of FTO will mark their full transition into solo patrol—further strengthening HPD’s capacity to serve a growing community.
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