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14 Cadets Graduate from First Jasper County Law Enforcement Academy in Nearly 20 Years
- Rita Shipp
- Oct 2
- 3 min read
Photos by Rita Shipp
JASPER, Texas – History was made Thursday evening as Cadet Class 119 of the Angelina College Law Enforcement Academy walked the stage at the Jasper High School Auditorium, becoming the first police academy class to graduate in Jasper County in almost two decades.
Fourteen cadets completed nearly ten months of intensive training, hosted locally in Jasper County through a partnership with Angelina College and the Deep East Texas College and Career Academy (DETCCA).
“This was the sheriff’s vision,” said Doug Conn, former director of the Angelina College Academy. “Sheriff Chuck Havard wanted to bring the opportunity home, and tonight we see the results — 14 new peace officers ready to serve.”
Havard’s Keynote
Sheriff Chuck Havard, a 1994 graduate of the Angelina College Police Academy himself, delivered the keynote address, reflecting on his own law enforcement journey from cadet to Texas DPS Trooper and eventually sheriff.
“You will be challenged, disrespected, and tempted — but never compromise your integrity. Once it’s gone, it’s nearly impossible to restore,” Havard told the graduates. “Tonight, I look at Class 119 and I see nothing but excellence, professionalism, and a bright future for law enforcement in East Texas.”
Finch’s Remarks
Lt. Logan Finch, Training Manager and lead instructor, praised the cadets’ resilience through months of evening classes, balancing work, family, and training. He noted the academy covered 42 subjects — from firearms and driving to law, active shooter response, and scenario-based training.
“They’ve done well, better than I would have,” Finch said with a smile.
Special Recognitions
Valedictorian: Ariana Jimenez
Special Recognition: Kevin Hoke and John Trammell
In her valedictorian address, Jimenez reflected on the challenges of balancing life and academy demands. She credited the encouragement of her instructors — especially Lt. Finch — and the unwavering support of family and friends.
“There were days we wanted to quit, but we stood together. This academy tested us, but it also proved what we’re capable of. We didn’t just complete the training — we grew into a family.”
Jasper County’s New Deputies
Five graduates will continue their service locally, joining the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office:
Deputy Bradley Morgan
Deputy Dr. Tony Tipton
Deputy Clayton Daigle
Deputy Vern Kaylor
Deputy Daniel Hoke
Cadet Class 119 Graduates
Ariana Jimenez – Valedictorian
John H. Trammell II – Special Recognition
Kevin D. Hoke - Special Recognition
Jeffrey B. Bowling
Clayton T. Daigle
Dustin L. Haas
Kenneth D. Henson
Christie L. Hutchison
Vern T. Kaylor III
Bradley E. Morgan
Alexis L. Parnell
Charles M. Spain
Morrison A. Tipton
Hunter R. Walker
Community Support & Thanks
The ceremony also recognized the contributions of academy staff, instructors, and community leaders who made the program possible.
Academy Staff: Dr. Esther Campbell, Lt. Logan Finch, Ashley Jowell, Kim Capps.
Special Thanks: Dr. Michael Simon, Dr. Tim Hire, Dr. Esther Campbell, and the Angelina College Board of Trustees: Curt Fenley, Gilbert Garza, Sidney Roberts, Lynne Haney, Robert Lindsey, Johnnie Ross, Hilary Haglund-Walker.
Instructors included: Logan Finch, Ashley Jowell, Doug Conn, Tom Selman, Corey Bean, Brad Davis, Lauren Chapman, Nathan Jessup, Amy Wren, Patricia Berry, Dr. Josh Hadnot, Allon Lenderman, Cody Christopher, Thomas Smith, Michelle Baggett, and Pam Hollis.
A Milestone for Jasper County
Thursday’s graduation wasn’t just a ceremony — it was a milestone for local law enforcement and the community. With cadets now moving into agencies across East Texas, and five joining the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office, the return of the Angelina College Law Enforcement Academy for Jasper County is expected to strengthen recruitment and public safety for years to come.
“This is not just the end of your academy,” Finch reminded graduates in his closing remarks. “It is the beginning of a lifetime of service. You’ve chosen a calling.”
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