Las Vegas NowInside Metro Police Academy Training

Inside Metro Police Academy Training

The day starts early. The work is not easy and not everyone makes the cut. This is a Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department training academy -- a difficult course that tests not only physical fitness but thinking skills.

New officers who join the LVMPD force must go through this enriching hands-on experience.

"It's a very difficult job. It's very time-consuming and you can lose your life in this career," said recruit Alexandria Cherry.

Recruit Cherry used to coach at Basic High School in Henderson. At 38-years-old, she's now the student learning life-saving lessons. Today's course is on defensive tactics and how to use a baton to take down a dangerous suspect. "It's very physical. I'm glad I'm in shape and I'm glad that I like the challenge," she said.

Cherry has been up for the challenge since she first tested for the job last October. Few make it as far as she has. "It's very competitive. Typically, of the people who show up for the first test, one in 10 will successfully be placed onto the eligibility list," said Metro Recruitment Sgt. David Orr.

After 24 tough weeks at the academy, the work is hardly over. These recruits will then head out in the field for 19 weeks of training and mentoring with a real Metro officer before they ever hit the streets and protect Las Vegas on their own.

Applicants must go through several steps, including a written test, background check, and psychological examination.

All classes start with a flag in memory of a fallen Metro officer. As they transition from civilians to officers, the flag is unfurled. The recruits just reached that turning point -- dedicating their academy to the life of Ernest May, who died in the line of duty in 1933.

"I take one day at a time. It's a lot of information that you have to understand, you have to learn," said Recruit Cherry.

Cherry has dreamed of a career in law enforcement. She is earning that dream, ready to take the oath in early December so she can serve and protect.