The College of the Florida Keys (CFK) recently celebrated the graduations of two basic law enforcement (BLE) academies. A ceremony was held on June 10 at the Key West Campus for BLE #77, a Key West-based academy, followed by a ceremony at Coral Shores High School on June 18 for BLE #76, an Upper Keys-based academy. A total of 12 cadets, four from BLE #77 and eight from BLE #76, successfully completed the 770-hour training program. Upon passing the state certification exam, each will be eligible to become a Florida Law Enforcement Officer.  

Cathy Torres, Director of CFK’s Institute for Public Safety, recognized top performing graduates with special accolades at each event. From BLE #77, Class Captain Jennifer Ketcham earned a Leadership and “Top Gun” awards. Andrea Bernatova was recognized for Academic Achievement. Tanisha Multy received a Physical Fitness award and the “PIG” award, which recognizes pride, integrity, and guts, went to Talandieu Dor. From BLE #76, Class Captain Mizael Ramos-Islas earned a Leadership award. Jonathan Arencibia was recognized for Academic Achievement. “Top Gun” honors for superior shooting skills went to Joseph Orinstein. Kevin Leon Gonzalez received a Physical Fitness award and the “PIG” award, which recognizes pride, integrity, and guts. 

At the graduation for BLE #77, Monroe County Sheriff Rick Ramsay swore-in graduates Tanisha Multy and Talandieu Dor as Monroe County Sheriff’s Office deputies. 

CFK’s law enforcement officer program satisfies the training requirements of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission. CFK is currently accepting applications for an upcoming basic law enforcement academy. Applications are due on July 9 for the first part-time evening academy to be held at the College’s new Upper Keys Center in Key Largo, which begins in August. For more information about CFK’s Institute for Public Safety, visit the College’s website at https://www.cfk.edu/academics/academic-departments/institute-for-public-safety/.