Metro Transit Police Celebrate Two Milestone Graduations

Earlier today, 22 recruit officers graduated from the inaugural Metro Transit Police Department (MTPD) Criminal Justice Academy.

These recruits participated in eight months of rigorous training in a wide range of areas specific to transit policing and traditional policing. This included training in crisis intervention, emergency vehicle operations, firearms, defensive tactics, de-escalation, community engagement, and civil disturbance.

During the eight-month training recruits have studied laws of the District of Columbia, Commonwealth of Virginia, and State of Maryland to ensure comprehension and compliance for the areas that Metro serves.

"Today's graduation represents more than just individual achievement-it's a step forward for the Metro Transit Police Department's commitment to specialized, community-focused policing" said Metro Transit Chief of Police Michael Anzallo "These officers are uniquely prepared to serve our transit community with distinction, significantly enhancing our operational effectiveness and reinforcing public trust. They're ready to make an immediate impact and carry our mission forward with integrity and professionalism."

Previously MTPD outsourced a criminal justice academy to train recruits, but creating an in-house training academy will save Metro nearly $1 million a year, which includes fees that were paid to other training facilities and personnel costs.

"Transitioning MTPD training to an in-house academy allows us to focus on policing in a transit environment," said Metro General Manager and CEO Randy Clarke. "We gladly welcome these new officers and are confident in their ability to make a positive and lasting impact on the organization and community"

Our 22 newest officers will begin the next phase of their training beginning this Sunday. They will experience ten weeks of field training, responding to calls for service alongside their assigned field training officers.

Also "graduating" this week is MTPD's first critical incident canine, Binki. Binki received her certification through the United States Police Canine Association (USPCA) as a certified therapy dog.

Binki joined MTPD in November 2024 and has spent the past five months training for her assessment and preparing for the responsibilities of her job. Binki's training consisted of four phases- Obedience Training, Socialization and Environmental exposure, Comfort and Emotional Support Response, as well as Public Engagement and Community Outreach.

Binki's duties will include crisis intervention, peer support, community events, and customer/employee engagement.

Congratulations to all of the graduates and welcome to the Metro team!

MTPD is always looking for motivated individuals who want to make a difference and who are committed to the mission of the department. If you are ready to make an impact and take on a rewarding challenge, we encourage prospective applicants to apply.