Welcome to MPD: Training underway for new class of police recruits

MADISON, Wis. – The Madison Police Department welcomed its 70th academy class during a special ceremony Tuesday morning.

There are 32 recruits in this year’s class. On Tuesday, they took an oath to serve and protect the people of Madison.

“Today is exciting. I wanted a job where I could help others,” said Karina De Los Santos, one of this year’s recruits. “I am the first person in my family to become a police officer.”

The Illinois native interned at the Madison Police Department last year and fell in love with the city. For the next six months, she and her classmates will take part in MPD’s in-house academy. They’ll receive extensive training in areas such as law, crisis intervention, use of community resources and patrol operations.

“You have to be selfless. This job is not about you,” Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes told the recruits during Tuesday’s ceremony. “You will work hard. You have to earn this. It is a privilege to serve your community.”

The Madison Police Department’s training academy is one of the most comprehensive in the country. It is conducted in Madison under the direct supervision of the Madison Police Department Training Staff.