Two prepare for police academy

STAFF WRITER

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Roosevelt County Sheriff’s Department and Eastern New Mexico University’s Police Department are sending two individuals to the police academy. Elijah Saina, ENMU Police Department, and Kole Tollett, Roosevelt County Sheriff’s Department, answered some questions about the process and what they expect the academy to be like.

link Elijah Saina

Elijah Saina

What do you anticipate the academy to be like?

They told me its military style so it will be a lot like boot camp. It will challenge me mentally and physically. It is going to be focused specifically to New Mexico law and how to operate as a police officer in the state.

You will be there for 16 weeks. What will be the hardest part of being away?

I’m not from here, my family is in California. It will not be hard being gone because I am more focused on completing the academy than how hard it will be for me.

What knowledge are you hoping to gain from this experience?

As far as knowledge wise I’m hoping to learn as much as I can. Working here with the lieutenant and chief has taught me a lot. I want the knowledge to be a good officer and to protect the community in the right way. I would like to gain more knowledge about things I do not know, like the levels of felonies through New Mexico statutes. I want to be like a sponge and absorb all the good information and squeeze out all the bad habits.

link Kole Tollett

Kole Tollett

What do you anticipate the academy will be like?

I think it will be challenging both physically and mentally, but I am looking forward to it.

Why did you decide to pursue a career in law enforcement?

I have pursued this for over 3 years now, I just really feel a calling to it.

What all did you have to do to prepare to go to the academy?

The sheriff's office had been really good about helping me get all my paperwork in order as well as helping me prepare for the physical assessment which consists of a mile and half run, pushups, sit-ups, and a 300-meter sprint. We also have to do a psychological evaluation and background check. My wife, daughter, and the rest of my family have been very supportive.