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Gov. Tim Walz on Tuesday announced $4.5 million in grants for 46 law enforcement agencies in Minnesota, including Freeborn County, to support officer training and recruitment.

The governor made the announcement alongside cadets and police chiefs from across the state at Hennepin Technical College, which is one of two locations that will provide training for law enforcement candidates.

“Police departments of all sizes are feeling the pinch of fewer officers,” Walz said. “We’re investing in building strong, well-trained law enforcement agencies that are fully staffed and ready to answer any call that comes in.”

The agencies receiving this funding will sponsor 94 candidates with two- and four-year degrees who want to make a career transition into law enforcement. All candidates will attend an intensive, comprehensive training program at Alexandria Technical & Community College or Hennepin Technical College where they will go through the same training that traditional peace officer students complete.

“The incentives of this training program are plentiful,” said Intensive Comprehensive Grant Administrator Mary Vukelich. “But this isn’t a free ride. Students will have to fully commit to this intensive and comprehensive curriculum that will give them the skills to become a licensed officer.”

DPS’ Office of Justice Programs has approved $4.5 million in grant funding to the agencies. $50,000 is available for each candidate. The funding covers their salary and cost of education.

The Intensive Comprehensive Grant Program enhances existing law enforcement recruiting programs. The ideal candidate is a non-traditional student who wants to work in law enforcement, but who faces challenges committing to the traditional 1.5 year-long education timeline. The program reduces the learning period to eight months or less.    

“This has been a game-changer,” said Tony Paetznick, director of public safety for the city of New Brighton. “If not for the program and commitment from the state, it would be difficult for any of us to fund an initiative like this. Additionally, the training the candidates get while earning a salary for their classroom time opens doors for quality people who might not otherwise consider careers in law enforcement.”