Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg, Correction Commissioner Martin F. Horn and Chief of Department Robert N. Davoren today presided over a graduation and promotion ceremony for 196 new probationary correction officers and 12 new promotees.  The Mayor was also joined by Norman Seabrook, President, Correction Officers Benevolent Association, and Sidney Schwartzbaum, President, Assistant Deputy Warden/Deputy Wardens Association. The ceremony was held at the Christ the King High School in Middle Village, Queens.

"Today we celebrate a proud day for 196 new probationary correction officers, and 12 members of the department receiving well-deserved promotions," said Mayor Bloomberg.  "Patrolling the city's jails is a profession that doesn't always get the credit it deserves, as it takes place out of the sight of most New Yorkers.  But out of sight does not mean out of mind - and New Yorkers are grateful for the work that has been done.  Through hard work and innovative reform efforts, New York has a model prison system, with a 98% reduction in violent incidents since 1995.  I congratulate our newest members of New York's Boldest, and am confident they will build upon the great strides made in the Department and make it even better."

"Today we welcome 196 recruit officers who have completed fifteen weeks of the best correctional training in the country," said Commissioner Horn. "They are now prepared to work in one of the most difficult jobs in law enforcement and we know they will serve with professionalism and integrity, as will our promotees, who are among the best managers in this City." 

Promotion ceremonies were also held for 11 uniformed officers and one civilian; two Correction Captains promoted to the rank of Assistant Deputy Warden, eight Assistant Deputy Wardens promoted to Deputy Warden, Arthur Oliveri, promoted to Deputy Warden-in-Command, and Assistant Commissioner Kathleen Coughlin, promoted to Deputy Commissioner. 

The class valedictorian was Correction Officer Claressa Prior, who graduated with a 96.4% grade average.  Each of the probationary Correction Officers completed a 15-week training course at the New York City Correction Academy located in Middle Village, Queens, which included training in security, constitutional law, use of force techniques, chemical agents, physical training, communication skills, investigations, first aid and health.  The graduates will be assigned to various commands on Rikers Island.