Civil Service Commission Approves Abbreviated Police Academy for OPOTA-Certified Officers

Police officers who already completed the Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy (OPOTA) can graduate from the Cleveland Police Academy in 12 weeks, instead of 30. 
 
CLEVELAND – Chief Director of Public Safety, Karrie D. Howard is pleased to announce the approval by the City’s Civil Service Commission to welcome certified Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy (OPOTA) officers for the first Cleveland Police Academy of 2024. Effective immediately, certified officers are eligible to join the Division of Police following a 12-week academy covering Cleveland-specific training and policies. 

“The approval by the Civil Service Commission is one of many steps we are taking in the City of Cleveland to retain and recruit members for our Division of Police,” said Karrie Howard, Chief Director of Public Safety. “We are being more inclusive in our hiring criteria while making sure candidates meet the imperative qualifications to make a positive impact in our communities.” 

Under the previous mandate, officers already compliant with the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) were required to repeat a 18-week academy, delaying the recruitment process. 

“Antiquated protocols enable and perpetuate substandard results,” said Rachon Long, Director of the Civil Service Commission. “We must do something different – and by considering a more modern approach – we are optimistic about the productive long-term impact this temporary agreement might have for the Division of Police.” 

Earlier this month, the City of Cleveland expanded the hiring cap for police officers from 40 to 55 years old. Mayor Bibb also increased cadet pay by 50%, is offering a sign-on bonus of up-to $5,000, reimbursement for prior OPOTA certification, and additional incentives for those entering the force with a college degree or military experience – all part of his RISE Initiative.  The City of Cleveland also provides longevity bonuses and tuition reimbursement, making the Cleveland Division of Police top patrol officers the highest paid among the largest cities in the state.  

OPOTA-certified officers interested in joining the Cleveland Division of Police are encouraged to apply before December 31, 2023. For questions about recruitment, contact the Public Safety Recruitment Team at (216) 623-5233.