DPS Congratulates its Police Academy Graduates

Jan. 13, 2025

On Friday, January 10, 2025, the Department of Public Safety celebrated the addition of four new sworn police officers to its ranks. The department invites you to welcome Patrol Officers Kimani Carrington, Kristin Freas-Papa, Derek Lopez, and Charles Palmer to Princeton University. The officers are graduates of the 57th Basic Course for Police Officers (BCPO) conducted by the Cape May Police Academy.   

2025 Police Academy Graduating Class Photo

The 21-week residential program culminated in a graduation ceremony that included remarks from the Director of the Public Safety Training Center Thomas DePaul, keynote address by former New Jersey Superior Court Judge Michael J. Donohue, and conferral of awards upon cadets earning distinction. As Police Training Commission licenses were granted the graduates, representing over 20 departments across New Jersey, swore the oath of office. Representing DPS, Ptl. Lopez was awarded the PTC Merit Award for his display of “those qualities of scholarship and leadership that are indicative of exceptional future professional performance in law enforcement.” 

Upon their return from the academy or hire, new officers enter the DPS field training program, which is designed to augment the basic training courses taught at the police academy.  For approximately 11 weeks, trainees are assigned to an experienced police officer selected to mentor and supervise them throughout their field training and receive necessary guidance to meet the department’s standards.  At the conclusion of the on-the-job training, rotating through various assignments, geographical areas on campus, and shifts, officers will have the skills to function independently. 

DPS is sponsoring another cohort of Police Officer candidates as part of the 58th BCPO at Cape May Academy this spring, with an expected graduation date of June 2025.