The San Antonio Police Department's training academy is unlike any in the United States.
Renowned for rigorous academics and physical fitness standards, current SAPD officers lead new cadets through over 1,300 hours of training over 32 weeks of instruction.
Compared to other cities that may not provide benefits for cadets, SAPD offers medical coverage and pays cadets to take the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement licensing exam.
For one year, Emilie Eaton and Lisa Krantz of the San Antonio Express-News followed 38 cadets as they worked through tough trials, including the dreaded "Hell Day," a 250-question state-mandated test, and the funeral of fallen SAPD officer Miguel Moreno.
What are the requirements to join SAPD's training academy? How are the physical demands and skills needed to graduate assessed?
In what ways does San Antonio prepare its police officers? During a time of a tension about the role of law enforcement in America, how do local officers create a better relationship with the community?
Guests:
- Emilie Eaton, criminal justice enterprise reporter for the San Antonio Express-News
- Lisa Krantz, photographer for the San Antonio Express News
- Sgt. Tina Baron, oversees academics and physical training at the San Antonio Police Department academy
"The Source" is a live call-in program airing Mondays through Thursdays from 12-1 p.m. During the live show, call 210-614-8980, email thesource@tpr.org or tweet at @TPRSource. Leave a voicemail with your questions and comments in advance by calling 210-615-8982.
