4 Southington Police Cadets Graduate From Regional Academy

SOUTHINGTON, CT — Four members of the Southington Police Department Cadet Program graduated from the NERLEEA Cadet Police Academy at Westfield State University in Massachusetts last week, with two receiving special recognition during the weeklong program.

The Southington Police Department Cadets announced the graduates in a social media post Wednesday.

The Southington Police Cadet program (formerly known as Police Explorers) is a youth organization for young adults ages 13 to 22.

Run in partnership with the Northeast Regional Law Enforcement Educational Association (NERLEEA) at the Southington Police Department (69 Lazy Lane), it aims to build character, leadership, and life skills for those interested in law enforcement and public safety careers.

Cadet Aidan Tulacro completed his second year at the academy, participating in the Cadet Police Department program.

The training included simulated patrol shifts around campus, during which cadets responded to role-play calls for service.

Tulacro was recognized by the Northeastern Regional Law Enforcement Educational Association (NERLEEA) for assisting a cadet from another department who was having difficulty with his uniform.

Cadets Nina Ouellette and Grace Goldberg completed their first year in the academy's advanced program, which combines physical and classroom instruction on topics including forensic investigations and building-clearing techniques. Ouellette also received the academy's Director's Award.

Cadet Isabella Weber completed her first year in the basic program, which is designed to build a foundation in ethics, teamwork and discipline.

The Southington Police Department Cadets congratulated all four graduates, writing that they were "proud of all four cadets for pushing through."

The NERLEEA Cadet Police Academy is an annual leadership and law enforcement training program for police cadets from agencies throughout the Northeast.

To watch the complete graduation ceremony, click on this link.