Department of Parks and Recreation Launches First Park Police Academy

Hagåtña, Guam – The Leon Guerrero-Tenorio Administration, through the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR), launched the first-ever Park Police Academy this week during a flag raising ceremony at the Paseo De Susana Park in Hagåtña on Tuesday. In addition to enforcing traffic regulations, Park Police Officers are responsible for investigating complaints, managing alcohol-free areas, and preventing illegal littering at public parks. 

“This is a historic move to increase security and deter crime and encourage residents and their families to come out and enjoy our island’s community spaces,” said Governor Lou Leon Guerrero. “We are grateful for the cooperation and coordination among our law enforcement agencies who helped make this first cohort possible.  As we strengthen our administration's efforts to combat crime, the number of officers is anticipated to rise by the end of the year.”

“As repairs and improvements continue around the island to improve the condition of the infrastructure of our public beaches and parks, there is a growing need for investment into qualified personnel to upkeep these spaces and restore a sense of security,” said Lt. Governor Josh Tenorio. “Prior to this year, there were only two park rangers on the force, but with effective management that has prioritized ensuring the general public's safety, there are now ten rangers working to support our parks.”

The initial cohort is comprised of five recruits who will complete a seven-week academy. This week, recruits are being trained by former Judiciary of Guam Chief Marshal Edward S. Toves in the Judicious Use of Lethal Force. Courses will also include fundamental handgun safety, fundamental officer survivability, and police report writing, in addition to on-the-job training with the Guam Police Department.

The Park Protection Section is led by DPR Park Police Superintendent Joey Terlaje. 

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