(KNSI) – Two area departments and a sheriff’s office have received grants from the state to help recruit and train police officers.
The Department of Public Safety grants total $4.5 million and are being spread out among 46 agencies statewide. Up to $50,000 is available per candidate. They already have two- or four-year college degrees and have been working in an unrelated field. The money allows them to transition to a law enforcement career. The Intensive Comprehensive Grant program will benefit Sartell and Waite Park Police.
It can be applied at the county level. Also approved for the program is the Stearns County Sheriff’s Department. The program reduces the time it takes to become a deputy or officer from about 1.5 years to only eight months, maybe even less. Each candidate will be paid as if they are already on the force while completing their coursework.
Teaching takes place in Alexandria or at Hennepin Technical College. Program administrator Mary Vukelich says, “The incentives of this training program are plentiful. But this isn’t a free ride. Students will have to fully commit to this intensive and comprehensive curriculum that will give them the skills to become a licensed officer.”
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