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The Scranton Police Department (SPD) and Lackawanna College announced a new training and education partnership on April 2, giving cadets from the college’s Scranton and Hazleton campuses access to the city’s law enforcement technology infrastructure and giving SPD officers and their families expanded access to higher education.

Advanced Training, Real-World Experience

Lackawanna College cadets will gain hands-on access to Scranton’s training technology, including Axon Virtual Reality systems and a MILO 180-degree immersive range theater, a multi-screen setup designed for scenario-based firearms and use-of-force training. Cadets will also be introduced to drones, advanced forensic tools, and modern tactical equipment, and will be eligible to participate in ride-along programs with SPD officers.

“This partnership represents a major step forward in how we prepare future officers for the realities of modern law enforcement,” said Kevin Mahoney, Director of Lackawanna College Police Academy. “By combining advanced technology, realistic training environments, and strong academic support, we are setting a new standard for excellence and professionalism in police training.”

Mahoney served 25 years with the Pennsylvania State Police, retiring as Criminal Investigation Section Commander for Troop R, Dunmore, before joining the academy in 2021. The Lackawanna College Police Academy has been training officers since 1977 and offers federal financial aid for qualified applicants and GI Bill benefits for veterans.

Scholarships and Tuition Benefits for Officers

Lackawanna College will provide four full scholarships annually to SPD members, along with tuition discounts for all department employees and their dependents.

“This collaboration is truly a win-win for our officers, future officers, and the community we serve,” said Scranton Police Chief Thomas Carroll. “We’re not only delivering the most advanced police services available, but we’re also opening doors to higher education that will benefit our officers and their families for years to come.”

The Scranton Police Department is the largest accredited department in northeastern Pennsylvania. Chief Carroll has championed the integration of body-worn cameras, real-time data systems, and enhanced training tools throughout his tenure.

Lackawanna College sees the partnership as an extension of its broader focus on keeping talent and opportunity local.

“At Lackawanna College, we’re focused on driving progress in Scranton, providing the training and educational pathways that help our students find success right at home while building a strong talent pipeline for our local workforce. Our partnership with the Scranton Police Department is a reflection of that commitment,” said Dr. Jill A. Murray, President and Chief Innovation Officer at Lackawanna College. “This program will bring valuable, hands-on learning experiences to our police cadets, ensuring they can confidently begin their careers and make an immediate impact. It also allows us to create new pathways for Police Department members and their families to pursue meaningful degrees and unlock growth opportunities.”

Part of a Larger Investment in Public Safety  

The partnership builds on more than $5 million in public safety investments Scranton Mayor Paige G. Cognetti’s administration has made since taking office, including $3.5 million in federal grants for safety equipment and $1.5 million in fleet upgrades.

“We have made it a priority to invest in public safety and ensure our police officers have the tools, technology, and training they need to do their jobs safely and effectively,” Cognetti said. “Through this collaboration with Lackawanna College, we are creating a direct pipeline for the next generation of officers to learn, grow, and serve at the highest level while also strengthening opportunities for the dedicated men and women already serving in the Scranton Police Department. Scranton is setting the national standard for how a modern police department trains, educates, and supports its officers. We have backed up our commitment to public safety with real investments, modernizing equipment, upgrading our fleet, expanding the force, and ensuring our officers have the support they need to succeed. I am incredibly proud of the Scranton Police Department and the work they do every day. This partnership builds on that momentum and reinforces something I believe in deeply: When we invest in our officers and their training, we are investing in safer neighborhoods and a stronger Scranton.”

The partnership reflects a shared mission between both organizations to invest in training, education, and innovation, ultimately strengthening public safety across the region.

About the City of Scranton  

Incorporated in 1866, the City of Scranton has a population of approximately 76,000 residents and is the sixth-largest municipality in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Scranton City Hall is located at 340 N. Washington Ave., Scranton, PA 18503. Residents requiring services should visit www.scrantonpa.gov.

About Mayor Paige G. Cognetti

Paige G. Cognetti was sworn in as the 36th Mayor of Scranton in January 2020 and took her third Oath of Office in January 2026. Her administration is focused on public safety, driving economic growth, upgrading infrastructure, government transparency and efficiency, and improving residents’ overall quality of life.