Two Washington officers graduate police academy

JOHNSTON — Washington’s police department has two new officers on the streets after they graduated with their certifications from the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy Dec. 13.

Easton Botkins and Noah Kleese finished the 16-week training with awards for their performance, according to Police Chief Jim Lester.

Lester said Botkins was recognized for making the “300 Point Club,” awarded to officers in training who run a 1.5-mile course in nine minutes or less, perform 20 or more pullups and perform 80 or more situps in two minutes or less.

Kleese, meanwhile, was ranked the top shooter award in the class of 42, scoring 100% in all qualifying tests during firearm training, and beating another contender for the award in an accuracy-testing “shoot off.”

“They both set a goal, and they both achieved that goal,” Lester said in a report to city council members last week. “It kind of made the day a little extra special. They not only completed their 16 weeks and graduated the academy, they also each came home with an award for outstanding performance. So we were happy to celebrate with them and their families.”

Lester said both officers had worked a few shifts since their return, and would start patrolling on their own in roughly the next two months.

Comments: Kalen.McCain@southeastiowaunion.com