The Knoxville Police Department's latest cadets, 19 in total, marked the culmination of their six-month training with a graduation ceremony, the department's unity underlined by recent tragedy. The event, held in north Knox County, was notably touched by the memory of Wisbens Antoine, who had been among the recruits. Tragically, Mr. Antoine passed away unexpectedly after collapsing during a training exercise just over a week prior.
During the graduation, Mr. Antoine was honored posthumously as an officer. His wife and children were in attendance to receive his badge, symbolizing his service and dedication. This gesture was part of a poignant moment of silence held in his name, as reported by WATE. "It’s obviously been a rough eight days for us, for me personally, for this department," Knoxville Police Chief Paul Noel expressed during the ceremony. "It’s been heartbreaking in so many ways," Chief Noel told WATE in a statement.
The new officers will embark on 22 weeks of field training before they patrol independently. Demonstrating optimism for the department's future, Chief Noel stated, "We’re a department on the rise, we’re a city on the rise," during the ceremony. "You can feel it in this room and just what a great day for KPD," added Noel.
In a post from their official account, the Knoxville Police Department recognized the collective achievement of the graduates, stating, "Tonight, we recognized 19 men and women for completing the six-month KPD training academy, including fallen Officer Antoine." Further, the post underlined their readiness to serve: "The members of the 2023-B Basic Recruit Class officially took their oath of office and are ready to serve the Knoxville community. Congrats, 2023-B!" as seen on X.
Tonight, we recognized 19 men and women for completing the six-month KPD training academy, including fallen Officer Antoine.
— Knoxville Police TN (@Knoxville_PD) March 5, 2024
The members of the 2023-B Basic Recruit Class officially took their oath of office and are ready to serve the Knoxville community.
Congrats, 2023-B! pic.twitter.com/LzK8gIGba6
