Forty-six students graduated from Delaware County Community College’s Municipal Police Academy on Dec. 14 during a ceremony held at Ridley High School.
The graduates included 17 newly hired officers for SEPTA, the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority; 11 female cadets; three Media officers; two Darby officers; one Folcroft officer; one Upper Darby officer; and one Villanova University officer.
DCCC’s narrative continued:
The oldest graduating cadet was Jeff Galitski, 53, of West Goshen.
“After working professionally for 25 years, I decided to pursue my interest in public service,” Galitski said. “I have a strong desire to work as a police officer because I believe in making a positive impact on people’s lives.
“Helping those in need, providing support during critical moments, and ensuring the safety of individuals and families will be a truly rewarding experience for me.”
More than 95% of the municipal police officers in Delaware County and more than 75% of the police officers in Chester County graduate from the academy.
Cadets are required to complete a 920-hour curriculum that includes extensive instruction in firearms, physical fitness, self-defense, homeland security, scenario training and practical exercises.
The academy is certified by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania through the Municipal Police Officers’ Education and Training Commission. Training and coursework take place at the Marple Campus.
The academy conducts training in accordance with Pennsylvania Legislative Act 120.
The academy has been serving the community since 1977 and conducts mandatory Act 180 in-service training for current municipal police officers.
The next academy class starts in January. Interested individuals should visit www.dccc.edu/mpa for more information.
