MTI Law Enforcement Academy Graduates 15 Recruits

Graduation class photo, taken by MTI Digital Design student Darryl Johnson

The Manatee Technical Institute Law Enforcement Academy graduated 15 basic recruits from the day program last night. The graduates were Steven Kiser (class leader), Esterlin A. Perozo (assistant class leader), Willie G. Braswell, Jorge Carvalho, Marina K. Edwards, Christopher M. Houghton, Patrick J. Howard, Edward C. Hyde, Lee A. Long, Kevin C. Manali, Thomas F. O’Brien, Casey R. Odell, Matthew R. Plough, Dalia Santana-Arellano, and Richard F. Snyder.  

Odell earned the Highest Academic Achievement award. Houghton earned the Top Gun award and Carvalho, the Best Driver Award. Class leader Kiser presented Academy Director Jay Romine with the class plaque.  

Palmetto Police Chief Charles (Rick) Wells addressed the class. MTI Director Mary Cantrell, PhD, gave the opening remarks. Also in attendance were Manatee County Sheriff Brad Steube, Bradenton Police Chief Michael Radzilowski, and Holmes Beach Police Chief William Tokajer, who gave the invocation.     

Director Romine also acknowledged his secretary, Sharon Niel, for her service and commitment to the students. Niel will retire in June after almost 10 years of service at MTI.  

Successful completion of the Law Enforcement Academy at MTI makes one eligible to take the State Certification Examination for Law Enforcement, the required test to become a Certified Law Enforcement Officer in the State of Florida. For more information on the MTI Law Enforcement Academy, please contact Director Romine at rominej@manateeschools.net.

Photo of the class attached. The photo was taken by MTI Digital Design student Darryl Johnson.