Governor Andy Beshear announced Thursday a historic expansion of law enforcement basic training in Western Kentucky as a new training facility will open in Madisonville.
During his Team Kentucky Update, the Governor said that for the first time since 1998, the commonwealth will offer simultaneous training at two locations. He noted the Department of Criminal Justice Training will use a building provided by the Madisonville Police Department while Team Kentucky constructs a $50 million multipurpose training facility in Madisonville.
click to download audioHe mentioned that officers training in Madisonville will also bolster local businesses, and attract high-quality personnel to the jobs this academy will make available.
Mayor Kevin Cotton, who was in Frankfort for the announcement, said this project has been a three-year collaborative effort.
click to download audioHe expressed excitement about welcoming the Department of Criminal Justice Training Western Kentucky Police Academy to Madisonville.
click to download audioIn a written statement, Hopkins County Judge-Executive Jack Whitfield Jr. expressed excitement about the new training center, noting it will save travel costs and increase certified law enforcement officers. Whitfield stated that he’s proud that Hopkins County has become a regional hub for shopping, education, healthcare, commerce, and now law enforcement training.
Gov. Beshear said this opportunity will free up more training slots in Richmond, benefiting the entire state. He thanked Mayor Cotton and the Madisonville Police Department for their daily efforts and their support for tornado-affected communities in Hopkins County.
