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Mayor Bowser Announces Expansion of MPD’s Police Cadet Training Program

Tuesday, March 28, 2017

(Washington, DC) – Today, Mayor Bowser was joined by Acting Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) Chief Peter Newsham to announce a $1.6 million investment in the expansion of the Metropolitan Police Department’s (MPD) Police Cadet Training Program. The investment will allow MPD to increase the number of Police Cadets from 35 to 70.

“Because of the officers at MPD, we have one of the most well-respected police forces in the country. Our officers are committed to community policing, and they work hard to earn and keep the trust of the people they serve,” said Mayor Bowser. “By recruiting more talent from within the community, we will be able to continue meeting the needs of our residents while building a safer, stronger DC.”

MPD’s Police Cadet Training Program allows high school graduates in DC to attend the University of the District of Columbia on a full tuition scholarship, while also working for MPD. Upon attaining 60-credit hours, the Cadets are eligible to become MPD Recruits and complete their Police Academy training.

“Building a recruiting program that identifies, hires, and retains strong talent is a priority for the Metropolitan Police Department,” said Chief Newsham. “Our Police Cadet Training Program is a tremendous asset to our Department and the community, and this expansion will give MPD another tool for recruiting strong talent from within the District.”

The proposed investments continue the Bowser’s Administration commitment to supporting the recruitment and retention of MPD officers. Last year, Mayor Bowser launched the Public Safety Academy at Anacostia High School to allow DC Public School students to pursue career education in public safety and be eligible for the MPD Cadet Program once they graduate. In fiscal year 2016, MPD implemented a Police Officer Retention Program to retain experienced officers through student loan forgiveness in exchange for three to four-year signed obligated service agreements.

More information about MPD recruitment efforts is available at mpdc.dc.gov.