Maine’s 62 newest police officers have graduated from the Maine Criminal Justice Academy in Vassalboro. The officers, who include Adam Oko of the Orono Police Department, spent 18 weeks in study and training and most will begin patrolling immediately, in time for Christmas and New Year’s Eve enforcement efforts.

Governor Paul LePage was the graduation speaker and told the new officers, “This is a day you will never forget. You have been well trained and are physically and mentally ready to serve your communities, your counties and your state. Whatever challenges tomorrow may bring, you are ready to meet that challenge.”

The new officers studied many topics, including crime scene processing, emergency vehicle operation, first aid, traffic and criminal law, domestic violence and sexual assault. Among the graduates were 13 State Police Trooper recruits and two Maine Marine Wardens, who will continue training with their departments before patrolling on their own.