118 New Boston Police Officers Graduate at Faneuil Hall

The Boston Police Department inducted 118 new officers into its ranks on Oct. 15 during a ceremony at Faneuil Hall. The graduating cohort completed a six-month training program at the Boston Police Academy. One additional officer joined the Boston Housing Authority Police Department, bringing the total number of graduates at the event to 119.

Mayor Michelle Wu addressed the class, stating that the group represents the cultural and neighborhood diversity of the city. She noted that 66 members of the class are bilingual and 18 have military backgrounds. Wu specifically recognized the graduation of the department’s first Muslim women officers. She identified Amina No as the first Somali American woman to join the force and Marama Dia as the first Ghanaian American woman.

The mayor reported that the recruits contributed nearly 2,500 hours of community service during their training period. These activities included engagements with young athletes and senior citizens. Wu told the graduates that they would serve as mentors and inspirations for residents across the city.

Commissioner Michael Cox urged the new officers to prioritize relationship building with residents. He stated that each interaction with the public is an opportunity to build trust through shared understanding. Cox said the department aims to solve problems through partnerships with residents and local businesses.

Cox explained that community policing is now a direct component of the academy curriculum. This approach gives recruits practical experience interacting with residents before they begin their patrol assignments. He acknowledged that the city is safer than in the past but emphasized the need to continue evolving to maintain crime reduction.

The commissioner also advised graduates to monitor their physical and emotional well-being. He instructed them to seek help without shame or fear when facing the demands of the profession. Class president Maeve Roche, who will become the department’s youngest serving officer, spoke about the bonds formed among recruits during the demanding academy experience.

The ceremony concluded with awards for academic achievement, physical fitness, and leadership. Family members presented badges to the graduates in the traditional closing segment. Cox reminded the new officers to use every public interaction as a chance to build trust.