The Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Training Academy held a graduation ceremony for 13 law enforcement officers from 5 area agencies on Friday, May 2, 2025.
Bossier Parish Sheriff Julian Whittington hosted the class as recruits completed 16 weeks of training to become P.O.S.T (Peace Officer Standards and Training) law enforcement officers. Their training included legal issues, weapons qualification and firearms safety, physical fitness and endurance training, non-lethal force options, officer survival skills, and much more.
Guest speaker Judge Allie Aiello Stahl of the 26th Judicial District Court of Louisiana, offered advice to the newly graduated class. Judge Stahl emphasized the critical role law enforcement officers play in upholding justice and maintaining public trust. She highlighted the importance of professionalism and composure even when dealing with unreasonable individuals. Her message served as a reminder that patience and integrity are essential qualities for officers committed to serving their communities effectively.
The Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Training Academy Staff is comprised of Academy Director Capt. Matt Gaydos, Lt. Robert Teague, Lt. Josh Cathcart, Sgt. Joey Bowen, Sgt. Corey MacIsaac, Sgt. Drew Harris, Sgt. Chad Gauthier, Corp. Lynette Avery, Corp. Matthew Bertrand, Retired Maj. Bruce Teutsch, Retired Capt. Al Langley, Deputy Kenny Viola, Deputy Steven Joe, and Dana Brossett.
Lt. Josh Cathcart presented academy awards to the following recruits:
• Physical Fitness Award – Deputy Preston Beach, Bossier Sheriff’s Office
• Firearms Proficiency Award – Deputy Rodrigo Martinez Martinez – Claiborne Parish Sheriff’s Office
• Academic Award – Deputy Gavin Muller – Bossier Sheriff’s Office
• Honor Graduate Award – Deputy Preston Beach – Bossier Sheriff’s Office
The Graduating Class of BPSTA:
Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office
Preston Wayne Beach
Makayla Deshawn Curry
Brandon Michael Ernst
Brian Justin Frazier
Gavin Wylde Muller
Zakkary Alexander Nelson
Cara Monique O’Kray (Class President)
Braden Joseph Primeaux
Colt Austin Shankle
Claiborne Parish Sheriff’s Office
Rodrigo Martinez Martinez
Minden Police Department
Johnna Victoria Traylor
Northwestern State University Police Department
Christian Jude Simmons
Springhill Police Department
Kevin Truman LaVaok