ALLENDALE, Mich. (via WOOD TV) — A record number of people are taking part of Grand Valley State University's police academy.
Of the 48 future officers, 17 will patrol neighborhoods as part of the Grand Rapids Police Department, Kent County Sheriff's Department, Grand Haven Public Safety or Muskegon City Police Department.
The remaining are still looking for work, but they shouldn't have too much trouble finding a job.
A surge in hiring in the '90s has resulted in a slew of retirements that are expected to continue for the next few years.
The record number of recruits comes despite the ongoing public perception issues faced by law enforcement.
But could that be a driving force for some?
“The reason I went into law enforcement in 1994 was because I had a negative interaction with an officer,” said Billy Wallace, director of GVSU's Criminal Justice Training Program. “I was treated inappropriately by a law enforcement officer. I thought I could do a better job myself, and that's what motivated me.”
Wallace says despite issues facing law enforcement, there's also a passion for serving the community driving many of these recruits.
“Years ago, there was probably a big commitment to the profession,” Wallace said. “I think now there's a big commitment to the community,”
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