Two new City of Hilliard police officers graduated from the Columbus Police Training Academy on Friday, taking on the responsibility to protect the community with integrity and compassion.

Officers Danielle Epperhart and Jonathan Kane are among the members of the academy’s 136^th recruit class. A total of 62 individuals graduated from the class, representing 11 central Ohio law enforcement agencies.

Epperhart has served as a support services clerk for HPD since 2018 and earned a bachelor’s degree from West Virginia University. Kane is a Hilliard native and 2018 graduate of Darby High School and was a member of HPD’s Explorer’s program for five years. He currently serves in the Ohio National Guard.

“We’re excited to welcome these two officers to the HPD family,” said Chief of Police Eric Grile. “We look forward to welcoming them to an incredibly rewarding line of work and introducing them to the Hilliard community.”

The academy includes 31 weeks of instruction on a diverse curriculum of subjects, with an emphasis on scenario-based training. In total, the academy provides more than double the amount of training required by the state. Recruits receive instruction on de-escalation, use of force, patrol operations and applied behavioral science, among other topics.

Next, the new officers will complete a 15-week field training program with a certified training officer.

For years, HPD has made a conscious effort to implement a community-oriented policing philosophy and build a unique bond with the people of Hilliard. Individuals who believe they embody the spirit of a vibrant city, can play an active role both in the department and in the community, and can continue to make Hilliard one of the best places to work and live should visit WearTheHPDBadge.org.