News & Media

U.S. Sen. Pat Toomey visited the Lackawanna College Police Academy to discuss the challenges that law enforcement currently face and how the College is handling cadet training during the coronavirus pandemic.

During the visit, Sen. Toomey met with Lackawanna College President Dr. Jill A. Murray, Academy Director John Chilleri, Academy staff and cadets.

“The Academy is mindful of current events and our training has evolved to ensure our cadets undergo instruction that prepares them for modern-day law enforcement,” said Chilleri. “We want our cadets to aid in forming valuable partnerships between law enforcement and the local communities they serve.”

The Lackawanna College Police Academy is the only private college in northeastern Pennsylvania authorized to provide ACT 120 training through the Municipal Police Officers’ Education and Training Commission (MPOETC). The curriculum covers topics focusing on policing strategies surrounding stress, health and resiliency. The Academy goes beyond this requirement with 48 hours of added hands-on realistic scenario training and mental health certifications.

The Academy’s application process includes psychological screening and state and federal background checks of all applicants. “This screening helps ensure that a potential cadet’s personality traits and physical aptitude are suitable for law enforcement professions,” said Chilleri.

“I appreciated the opportunity to visit with the cadets and leadership of the Lackawanna College Police Academy,” said Senator Toomey. “Police officers are among our most dedicated public servants. The advanced policing techniques that are instilled in cadets at Lackawanna College will better equip them to protect and serve all communities.”

Academy training was suspended on March 15 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and resumed in-person instruction on June 24. Daily wellness screenings, sanitation procedures and social distancing based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Federal Emergency Management Agency, Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency and Pennsylvania Department of Health guidelines has been implemented.

About Lackawanna College:

Founded in 1894, Lackawanna College is a private, accredited college serving the people of northeastern Pennsylvania. With a main campus situated in downtown Scranton, Lackawanna’s expanding footprint also includes satellite centers in Hawley, Hazleton, The School of Petroleum and Natural Gas in New Milford, Sunbury, Towanda and the Environmental Education Center in Covington Township. Learn more at www.lackawanna.edu.

Heather L. Gogas
Communications Coordinator
gogash@lackawanna.edu
o. (570)961-7807
c. (570)332-4128