Houghton Will Sponsor Two Officers’ Training at the Police Academy, Will Seek Funds through a MCOLES Grant

The city of Houghton’s police department hopes to add two more officers to the department. With help from the city council, the police department will seek two candidates to sponsor their training at the police academy. The Houghton police department will seek to alleviate some of the cost of sponsoring two officers’ training by applying for a grant will the Michigan Commission of Law Enforcement standards.

“There’s also an MCOLES grant that is available. That pays up to 24,000 dollars. This is the approximate cost to send somebody to the police academy, to pay them while they’re there. And have their housing costs covered.” Police Chief John Donnelly, Houghton Police Department

Houghton Police Chief John Donnelly says that the department needs new officers. Over the past year, some have taken positions with other agencies, for things like higher pay, and retirements. Donnelly noted that agencies throughout the county are experiencing similar circumstances.

“Three, four years ago we would have people lining up at the door to get into the academy. And it used to be people had to pay out of their own pocket. And it’s a change. The sheriff’s department, Hancock, has also put people through the academy this way. And they both have people scheduled to go through the academy there.” Police Chief John Donnelly, Houghton Police Department

The city council approved a motion to sponsor two police officer candidates’ training in the police academy. Those interested in getting started in a career in law enforcement with the city of Houghton should contact the city’s police department.

Learn more about the Houghton Police Department here.