Lawson graduates from Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice basic training academy

Williamsburg Police Officer Bryson Lawson was one of 27 law enforcement officers from agencies across the state, who graduated from the Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training (DOCJT) basic training academy Thursday.

“Entering the law enforcement profession is a noble calling, and I’m grateful for the work you have done at DOCJT to prepare yourself to serve the commonwealth,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “Thank you for your dedication and your commitment to a career of service.”

DOCJT is committed to providing officers with best practices, the latest technology, training and legal information to protect the diverse communities they serve.

The graduates of Class 520 received 800 hours of recruit-level instruction over 20 weeks. Major training areas include 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.

“In your 20 weeks of basic training, you learned the skills and knowledge required to begin your career,” said DOCJT Commissioner Nicolai Jilek. “But I urge you, never stop learning. This is a career where continued training is critical to keep yourself and others safe. We are here for you as you continue to grow and learn as a law enforcement officer.”

DOCJT provides basic training for city and county police officers, sheriffs’ deputies, university police, airport police throughout the state, only excluding Louisville Metro Police Department, Lexington Police Department, Bowling Green Police Department and the Kentucky State Police, which each have independent academies.

“The Williamsburg Police Department would like to congratulate Officer Bryson Lawson on graduating from the Basic Law Enforcement Training Academy,” the department wrote in a release. “We look forward to having Officer Lawson back in Williamsburg and serving our community.”