Little Rock Police Department graduates recruit class 119; top honors and scholarship awarded

MAJOR ERIC HEINSLEY opened the ceremony at the Little Rock Police Department Training Academy, welcomed families and city leaders, and introduced the program for the graduation of recruit class 119.

Chief Heath Helton addressed the graduates, noting the completion of a 26-week academy and telling recruits the badge represents service and trust. “That badge you wear will remind you that your authority is rooted in service, not in power,” Chief Helton said.

Class leader William Sanders, who spoke on behalf of the recruits, reflected on the training and camaraderie built over the six-month program. “We learned criminal codes, tactics, procedures, and improved our communication skills,” Sanders said. He thanked instructors and families and urged his classmates to carry the oath with pride.

At the awards portion of the ceremony, training staff recognized top performers across three categories: academics, physical fitness and firearms. William Sanders received the academic excellence award with an average score of 98.9. Eloy (name appears with several spellings in the transcript; presented in uppercase as Eloy CABRAL PATRON) was recognized for physical fitness (95.2) and firearms (98.4) and was named the overall honor graduate with an overall score of 97%.

Training staff also announced an ongoing partnership with Bethel University College of Public Service, based in West Tennessee, and said a $5,000 scholarship will be awarded to the top recruit (the transcript names the scholarship recipient as Eloy Cabral Patron).

The Hon. Judge Jill Kamps administered the oath of office, directing recruits to pledge support for the U.S. and Arkansas constitutions and to faithfully discharge the duties of law enforcement officers in and for the City of Little Rock. Chaplain Ken Martin delivered the invocation and later the benediction.

Following the formalities, Class 119 was dismissed. Presenters and department leaders thanked the recruits and their families and closed the ceremony.