Thirty-two Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office cadets were deputized during a graduation ceremony for Law Enforcement Class 20-03 this morning. Following an extensive 32 weeks of in-depth training and classroom learning, graduates received their badges as they begin their journey to protect and serve the citizens of Hillsborough County.
"Class 20-03 has had one of the more challenging academies in recent years," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "On top of learning the new body-worn cameras system, they also were present for the funerals of two deputies killed in the line of duty in recent months: Sergeant Brian LaVigne and Pinellas County Deputy Michael Magli. They, unfortunately, had to witness the darkest times of a career in law enforcement not once, but twice. There is no question that their career as a deputy sheriff will come with inherent dangers and so many unknowns. I am proud that they have remained strong through these grueling months of training and will now set out on patrol to protect our community in the coming days."
Amongst those graduating are two cadets who are second-generation and third-generation deputies in their family. Reed Service, whose father Jeff is currently a deputy with HCSO's Motor Unit, graduated today and will be the third generation to protect and serve his community. His uncle is also currently a deputy at HCSO, and his grandmother is a former deputy, as well. Robert Howard II will be a second-generation deputy to serve with HCSO. His father, Robert Sr., also serves on the agency's Motor Unit.
Graduate Tyler Randall sang the National Anthem at today's graduation ceremony. Prior to a career in law enforcement, Randall traveled to play music across the country, and at one point, even played at the prestigious Carnegie Hall in New York City.
To learn more about a career in law enforcement or apply for a position with the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office, please visit our website at www.joinhcso.com.