Governor Cuomo Congratulates 33 State Park Police Academy Graduates

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today congratulated 33 graduates from the 11^th Basic School of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (State Parks) Police Academy.

Today we recognize the commitment of 33 men and women who have answered the call to serve and protect their fellow New Yorkers, Governor Cuomo said. Whether they are responding to extreme weather emergencies, assisting other law enforcement agencies in criminal investigations, or maintaining a safe and enjoyable environment across all of our States Parks, the State Park Police are providing an essential service to New Yorkers and our visitors. I offer my congratulations to these graduates and their families.

State Park Police are crucial to a safe and welcoming State park system, said State Parks Commissioner Rose Harvey. Whether working amidst the summer crowds Jones Beach; or searching vast wilderness areas upstate or at Harriman or Letchworth in snow; or keeping our youth safe at our large concert venues State Park Police provide professional and friendly assistance and lifesaving services throughout our vast system all year round.

Congratulations to our new park police officers, said State Parks Director of Park Police Richard ODonnell. Their training has prepared them for a challenging and rewarding career protecting New York States system of parks and historic sites and the millions of people who visit them. I look forward to working with the new officers to provide an essential public service to the people of New York State.

The 33 recruits completed a six-month residential training program at the State Park Police Academy in Rensselaerville, Albany County. Training consisted of classroom education in Criminal Procedure Law, Penal Law, Vehicle and Traffic Law, Park and Recreation Law, criminal investigations and a host of other police related topics. In addition, the recruits received hands-on training in firearms, first response, snowmobile operation, basic boat operation, rope rescue, and emergency vehicle operation.

The following graduates received special recognition awards:

• Officer Philip Nesbitt, of Churchville, NY, was awarded the Leadership Award and the Physical Fitness Award.
• Officer James Flanagan, of Hopewell Junction, NY, was awarded the Firearms Proficiency Award.
• Officer Christopher Badman, of Baldwinsville, NY, was awarded the Academic Achievement Award.

The new officers will be assigned to regional commands throughout the state. They will begin a 10-week field training program where they will receive supervised training from senior officers, followed by assignment to patrol responsibilities.

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation administers 179 parks and 35 state historic sites, which attract over 60 million visitors each year. For more information about state parks and historic sites in New York, please visit www.nysparks.com.

The graduates of this years class are: