Henderson Police Academy Sets Enrollment Record

Forty-four new officers joined the Henderson Police Department on Thursday. They completed a 26-week training program at the Henderson Police Academy, marking the largest graduating class in the department's history.

The cohort includes Anthony Rosas and Tiffany Harris. They began their journey as recruits six months ago. The group spent the final months of their training preparing for high-risk scenarios and standard police duties.

Harris described the initial phase of the program as intense. She recalled the noise, physical strength requirements, and command structure on the first day. “That first day was invigorating. You’re terrified. It’s a lot of noise and yelling and physical strength building and training,” Harris said.

Recruits learned to stand at attention and follow strict commands. They studied firearms safety and handled simulated high-risk calls. Rosas emphasized the importance of daily discipline in building professional trust. “You have to be dedicated to this. You have to be disciplined. It’s like our model: discipline today, trust in tomorrow. It’s that in the essence,” Rosas said.

The class supported one another through the demanding schedule. Harris noted that the group studied and exercised together, often enduring sleepless nights. “It’s been so much of just studying together, working out, and just sleepless nights. But we did it together, and we were on the other side,” Harris said.

On graduation day, the recruits walked across the stage to receive their certifications. Harris attributed her success to consistency and hard work. “So for me to be here at the very end, it shows a lot about tenacity, perseverance, consistency, hard work,” Harris said. Rosas said he never doubted he would finish the program. “There was never a doubt, because this is what I want to do, and this is what I chose to do professionally,” Rosas said.

The 44 new officers will not patrol alone immediately. They will enter field training next. During this period, they will work alongside experienced officers before assuming independent patrol duties.