PIQUA — Robert Benshoff, of Sidney, Sarah Maynard, of Jackson Center and Shawn McIntire, of DeGraff, were among 10 students honored by Edison State Community College’s Peace Officer Academy in December following their successful completion of the 22-week program.

Students of the program met for six days each week for almost a year, totaling 742 hours of training. The curriculum of the program is certified by the Ohio Peace Officer Training Commission and covers all aspects of law enforcement training including administration, firearms, subject control and investigation.

“This was another exceptional class of cadets, who all have the heart and desire to serve and protect. Given the opportunity, they will serve proudly and be an asset to any agency willing to give them that opportunity,” said Joseph Mahan, Basic Peace Officer Academy commander. ​“I wish them the best and much success in their chosen profession of being a law enforcement officer.”

Following successful completion of the police officer program, cadets are required to pass the state certification exam.

Edison State offered the first Basic Peace Officer Academy in 2003, and the class that completed academic requirements this spring was from the 37th academy. Throughout its 15-year history, the program has enrolled 606 students.

Of the cadets who qualified to sit for the state certification exam and passed, 76.8 percent of them have been sworn in as law enforcement officers in Ohio, representing 59 different police agencies.

“I am very proud of each and every graduate and thankful for the sacrifices they made to attend and will continue to make throughout their career,” said Dr. Tony Human, dean of Professional and Technical Programs. “You do not select law enforcement; it selects you. I encourage them all to wear their badges with pride and remember: To protect, you must first serve.”