At the October 26 City Council meeting, Shenandoah Police Department lieutenants Joel Gordon and Jake Reuvers were recognized by the Texas Police Chiefs Association for being the 11th and 12th officers certified in the TPCA Law Enforcement Command Officers Program.
TPCA Director of Training Mike Gentry personally presented each of the officers their award even though they had officially been named in July. Gentry apologized for issues that kept him from doing so earlier but assured them they were highlighted on the TPCA site in their respective positions.
LECOP began two years ago as a program to encourage and provide comprehensive leadership development to Texas law enforcement officers. The program consists of two tracks --- personal leadership development and organization health and integrity. Each applicant is then required to complete 10 TPCA courses (6 required, 4 electives) with no time limitations that might limit participation due to the cost and departmental absence issues. They are also required to have the recommendation of the Chief Administrator. Completion of the 10 courses varies for each officer and requires traveling in most cases. Sixty classes are held each year offering attendance opportunities across the state. Shenandoah has been the location for many of those courses. In October 2021, the first awards were presented; by July 2022, Gordon and Reuvers made the 11th and 12th slots and to date, there are now 27.
In presenting the awards, Gentry congratulated both men and thanked them for their participation in and support of their programs.
“They deserve every bit of the recognition that we will give them tonight as they are prepared and trained to serve in whatever role that you assign them as law enforcement command officers in the state of Texas.”
Photo: Lt. Joel Gordon, Lt. Jake Reuvers TPCA Director of Training Mike Gentry and SHPD Chief Troye Dunlap