WORCESTER—Worcester County Sheriff Lew Evangelidis administered the Correctional Officers Oath to 26 recruits graduating from the Sheriff’s Office’s 62nd Basic Recruit Training Academy (B.R.T.A.) on Monday, Nov. 25.
The ceremony, held at Quinsigamond Community College’s Hebert Auditorium, included the swearing-in of Officers Abigail Brackett, Dante Duqueestrada, Zachary Fashaw, Seth Karlan, and Roberto Ortiz Cruz, all residents of Worcester.
The Worcester County Sheriff’s Office emphasized its commitment to public safety and its focus on assembling a team reflective of the community it serves. Recruits of B.R.T.A. #62 represent a diverse and highly qualified group, originating from 14 towns across Massachusetts.
The 13-week academy program is a paid, full-time training initiative that prepares recruits to manage the care, custody, and control of inmates at the Worcester County Jail and House of Correction. The curriculum blends classroom instruction with hands-on training, covering topics such as de-escalation techniques, duty to intervene, fire safety, defensive tactics, first responder training, mental health, suicide prevention, and substance abuse. Recruits also undergo daily physical fitness sessions and regular assessments.
“After 13 rigorous weeks of training, I’m thrilled to present the best and brightest in corrections today,” said Sheriff Evangelidis. “The Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Training Department is one of the best in the state. I can confidently say that these men and women are ready to join the ranks as full-time corrections officers and contribute to successfully executing our mission. Congratulations to these graduates as they begin their new careers.”
Sheriff Evangelidis has introduced stricter hiring standards to elevate the professionalism and integrity of the department. Applicants must have at least an associate degree, two years of military service, or two years of relevant work experience. The selection process includes a written exam, physical fitness test, background check, and psychological screening.
The Sheriff’s Office is now accepting applications for its 63rd Basic Recruit Training Academy, scheduled to begin in March 2025. Those interested in pursuing a career as a correctional officer can visit www.WorcesterCountySheriff.com/Careers/Correctional-Officer-Academy/ for more information.
