16 Recruits Graduate from Des Moines Police Academy

Press Release

Des Moines, Iowa- Friday, November 22, 2024 - 16 recruits crossed the stage becoming Des Moines Police Department's newest officers at a graduation ceremony this morning.

This morning's ceremony marked the 84th Des Moines Police Academy's graduation - the first academy class to graduate under Des Moines Police Chief Michael McTaggart.

"Getting their badges pinned will be a core memory for each of these officers," McTaggart said. "Today is the beginning of their journey as police officers and their careers of service to the community of Des Moines. These officers are the future of the Des Moines Police Department, decades into the future."

The academy began in June as one of the City's most ethnically and racially diverse recruit classes ever and includes members of the class who speak at least 6 languages in addition to English.

"This class is a step forward for our department in representing the community we serve," Lieutenant Rodrigo Santizo said. "Our community is changing and evolving and so is our police department as we strive to meet the needs of the community we serve."

Following their graduation, the 16 officers will complete a field training program during their probationary period.