CORRECTION GRADUATES 333 NEW RECRUIT OFFICERS
Last Ceremony for Retiring Chief of Department Robert Davoren

Correction Commissioner Martin F. Horn and Chief of Department Robert N. Davoren today presided over a graduation ceremony at Brooklyn College for 333 new probationary Correction Officers.  Norman Seabrook, President of the Correction Officers Benevolent Association, joined them.  The ceremony also honored the retirement of Chief Robert N. Davoren. Chief Davoren will retire on Friday, February 17th after 34 years with the Department, serving as Chief since 2000.

"Today is an exciting day for the Department as we welcome 333 new officers to our ranks," said Correction Commissioner Martin F. Horn.  "It is also a memorable day as we say goodbye to Chief Davoren, one of the finest public servants I have had the honor to serve with.  He exemplifies the best of Correction, as he has for 34 years with the Department.  On behalf of the entire Department, I wish him every success in his retirement.  We will miss him."  

Chief Davoren said, "I have been blessed with a long and wonderful career in this Department and I will take with me many fond memories of the hard working and professional people I have served with over the years.  Most of all, I am grateful to have been a part of this great organization, one that has been like family to me.  Good luck to all and never forget that you are part of the best correction department in the country."

The class valedictorian was Correction Officer Kareema Young, who graduated with a 97.15% grade average.  Each of the Correction Officers completed a 15-week training curriculum at the Correction Academy in Middle Village, Queens, which included training in security, use of force techniques, constitutional law, chemical agents, physical training, first aid, health and investigative procedures.  The graduates will be assigned to various facilities on Rikers Island, with most assuming their new positions on the midnight tour this Sunday