They were in the San Jose Police Academy for more than 13 months because of COVID-19, but 42 police recruits finally graduated on Friday.
White chairs were spaced 6 feet apart in a parking lot for the graduation.
“Yeah, it was definitely one of the longest academies we’ve ever had here in the department,” said SJPD Sergeant Jermaine Thomas. “Normally the academy goes 6.5, 7 months.”
He told KCBS Radio that the coronavirus caused the delays.
Acting Police Chief David Tindall said that this was one of their most diverse classes ever.
“They have certainly gone through everything that 2020 had to offer,” he added.
More than 1,600 people applied for the jobs.
