Wilmington’s Latest Police Recruits Sworn In to Serve and Protect

January 6, 2024

Wilmington Mayor Mike Purzycki and Police Chief Wilfredo Campos proudly announced the successful culmination of the 102nd Wilmington Police Academy, commencing in August. The distinguished ceremony unfolded at the JPMorgan Chase Building, drawing attendance from an assembly of family, friends, and staunch supporters of the seven recently sworn-in Wilmington Police officers. 

These dedicated individuals are set to embark on their new roles within the Uniformed Services Division starting this Monday.

The significant addition of these accomplished officers brings the police force’s total count to just under 290, within the authorized strength of 312 budgeted positions. Notably, the department initiated the recruitment process for the 103rd Wilmington Police Academy in December, with the application deadline set for March 1.

The application process for the 102^nd Wilmington Police Academy drew 51 applicants, and the seven who were selected to participate in the rigorous training program comprise the most diverse class in more than a decade, with 85% of the class being comprised of minority recruits. Additionally, five of the seven recruits were already City of Wilmington residents at the time of their acceptance.

Wilmington’s newest cadre of police officers includes Shannon Fletcher, Christian Gonzalez, John Gordy III, Michael Leonard, Trasina Miller, Destiny Snow-Ramos, and Ayanna Thompson.

Each of these officers will be strategically paired with a seasoned counterpart, a senior police officer, who will assume the role of their field training officer. This mentorship, spanning a minimum of six months, is designed to cultivate valuable on-the-ground experience in patrol duties.

“Chief Campos and I are extremely thankful to these seven new officers for choosing a career of such importance to the residents of Wilmington and to everyone who works in or visits our City,” said Mayor Purzycki. “This job can be challenging, stressful, and, at times, unforgiving, but it is also one of the most rewarding forms of public service there is. It takes courage, stamina, and concern for others to protect and defend our communities successfully, and I do not doubt that these young men and women will serve the department and the people of Wilmington well. They have my admiration and support as they join what I firmly believe is one of the finest police departments in the entire country.”

The graduation also marked the completion of the Academy for Steven Plank of the Delaware Capitol Police.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank, the Wilmington Police Department and its academy staff for allowing Delaware Capitol Police Recruit Steven Plank to attend the 102^nd Wilmington Police Academy,” said Chief Elmer C. Harris. “This training could not have been possible without the partnerships that have been developed between Wilmington Police Department and the Delaware Capitol Police.”

Chief Campos commended the recruits for their notable achievements and addressed the comprehensive training they underwent, delving into each facet of the multifaceted crime strategies implemented by the Wilmington Police Department.

“We are proud to welcome these men and women to the Wilmington Police Department and are excited to support them as they embark upon a career in public service,” said Chief Campos. “At a time when recruitment is one of the biggest challenges facing police departments across the country, these seven recruits stepped up and answered our call – and we appreciate their decision to dedicate their careers to protecting and serving Wilmington.”

Chief Campos extended recognition to Major Anthony Bowers, Captain Andrea Janvier, and the dedicated team within the WPD Human Resources Division for their ongoing achievements in enhancing departmental diversity by actively attracting applicants and recruits from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds.

Additionally, the Chief emphasized key components of the recruits’ training, underscoring the importance of procedural justice, law enforcement legitimacy, cultural diversity, and de-escalation as integral elements in their development.

In an outstanding acknowledgment of exceptional achievements during the 102nd Police Academy, the following graduates received well-deserved accolades today:

• Ayanna Thompson was honored with the prestigious Chief’s Trophy.
• Michael Leonard received The Attorney General’s Award.
• Shannon Fletcher was distinguished with the Wilmington Retired Police Meritorious Award.
• John Gordy III earned recognition through the Lt. James A. Diana Award.
• Michael Leonard was honored with both the Academic Excellence Award and the Physical Fitness Award.
• To add to his remarkable achievements, Michael Leonard also secured the Top Marksmanship Award.

 

Patrolman Ramon Diaz, an alumnus of the esteemed 101st Wilmington Police Academy, was presented with the distinguished Leonard Kittner Award during today’s ceremony. This prestigious accolade acknowledges the exceptional work exhibited by a police officer who graduated from the preceding academy class.

Are you eager to become part of the upcoming Wilmington Police Academy class? The application window for the 103rd Wilmington Police Academy is currently open! Seize the opportunity to submit your application by the March 1 deadline. Discover more and apply online today at www.WilmingtonDE.gov/PoliceAcademy.