After completing a rigorous 20-week academic and physical training program at the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Police Academy, four Culver City Police Department recruits were sworn in by Police Chief Donald Pedersen during a ceremony at The Culver City Police Department. Officers Darrin Takade, Maurilio Gamboa, Precious Ares and William Kutylo are the newest members of the Culver City Police Department family.
“We take pride in having one of the premiere law-enforcement agencies in Los Angeles County and that allows us to be very selective and pick the best possible candidates,” Culver City Police Department Lieutenant Allen Azran said. “We have a very stringent and a very lengthy hiring process andonly a small percentage of the people who actually apply ever make it to the point to where they are eligible to be hired.”
For training, the CCPD uses the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Academy. Upon completion at the academy, the graduates return to the CCPD where they begin what is known as the field training program. This program will last, on average, six months and involves a very intensive training curriculum with a certified Field Training Officer.
“The academy is just the first step: the field training program is really where their career success is determined,” Azran said. “During the field training program some of what they learn is the geography of Culver City; they learn the safe operation of police vehicles, they learn tactics, officer safety and report writing. They also become familiar with the policies of the City of Culver City and the Culver City Police Department.”
The swearing in ceremony took place on Dec. 2 and was attended by members of the police department as well as family and friends of the new officers.
“Our hope is that they remain with the Culver City Police Department and have a safe and successful career.” Azran said.