Officer Donald Todd (MPD) Graduates DOCJT Basic Training Academy

On June 26, 38 law enforcement officers from agencies across the commonwealth graduated from the Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training's (DOCJT) Basic Training Academy in Richmond. These law enforcement officers now return home to serve, protect, and create a safer Kentucky. 

Among these new graduates was Officer Donald Todd serving with the McKee Police Department. 

"Our law enforcement has a long history of serving and protecting this great commonwealth. Today, you all become part of this legacy," Gov. Beshear said. "Thank you for stepping up to serve. We pray for your safety and wish you all fulfilling and successful careers." 

DOCJT and our local law enforcement agencies are committed to providing officers with best practices, the latest technology training and legal information to protect the communities they serve. Officer Todd and the graduates of Class 559 received more than 800 hours of recruit-level instruction over 20 weeks. Major training areas included patrol procedures, physical training, vehicle operations, defensive tactics, criminal law, traffic and DUI, firearms, criminal investigations, cultural awareness, bias-related crimes, and tactical responses to crisis situations. 

"Today, you leave this academy and have earned more than the honor of carrying a badge," DOCJT Commissioner Mike Bosse said. "You now carry with you the responsibility of serving with honor, integrity, fairness, and transparency. Take this responsibility to heart, and the people you protect will see how much you care." 

In Kentucky, law enforcement officers need to be certified by the Kentucky Law Enforcement Council (KLEC) and complete training at the Department of Criminal Justice Training (DOCJT) to be eligible for certification. DOCJT offers basic and in-service training to law enforcement officers and telecommunicators throughout the state. 

New officers must complete a Basic Training Academy, which includes classroom instruction, physical training, and practical exercises. In-service officers are required to complete annual continuing education requirements to maintain their certification. 

Recruits must be hired by a Kentucky law enforcement agency before attending the academy. Officer Todd was employed by the McKee Police Department. 

The DOCJT offers basic training, primarily at Eastern Kentucky University in Richmond, KY. However, in 2025, DOCJT will begin offering basic training in Western Kentucky at the Madisonville Police Department Regional Training Center, according to the Kentucky Association of Chiefs of Police. 

The academy covers areas like patrol procedures, physical training, vehicle operations, criminal law, and criminal investigations. Recruits must stay in dormitories during the week and maintain a clean and orderly environment. 

Applicants must also meet the Peace Officer Professional Standards (POPS) physical agility test and a swimming requirement. 

The Kentucky Law Enforcement Council oversees the certification process, ensuring that officers meet the required standards, including background checks, medical examinations, and psychological evaluations. 

Additionally, after graduation, certified officers are required to complete 40 hours of KLEC-certified continuing education annually. DOCJT offers a variety of in-service courses, including online options, to meet the continuing education requirements of its members. 

Congratulations, Officer Todd, on your successful graduation!