COLUMBUS, OH — On Wednesday, January 17, 2025, the Ohio State Highway Patrol Training Academy celebrated the graduation of 54 new peace officers, including Omar Rubio Jr. of the Pickaway County Sheriff’s Office. Rubio is one of the newest recruits set to serve his community after completing the 21-week Basic Peace Officer course, which began in August 2024.
The graduates were presented their training certificates during a ceremony at the academy, marking the successful completion of an intensive program designed to meet and exceed the requirements set by the Ohio Peace Officer Training Commission. The course covered over 150 topics, including criminal law, traffic law, firearms training, self-defense, and emergency vehicle operations.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Training Academy is recognized for its excellence and is a “STAR-certified” academy by the Ohio Attorney General.
Among the graduates, Rubio will begin his duties with the Pickaway County Sheriff’s Office, joining 28 other Ohio agencies in welcoming new officers. During the ceremony, class speaker Taylor M. Howman of the Zanesville Police Department addressed the graduates and attendees.
The ceremony also recognized outstanding achievements among the graduates. While Rubio was not specifically honored for individual performance, his dedication and hard work are evident in his successful completion of the rigorous training.
In addition to his duties at the Pickaway County Sheriff’s Office, Rubio joins the ranks of law enforcement officers who have committed to upholding public safety across Ohio. He and his fellow graduates are now prepared to serve their communities as peace officers, ensuring safety and justice in the regions they serve.
Chief Kurt E. Althouse of the Vandalia Division of Police served as the keynote speaker for the ceremony, and remarks were also made by Director Andy W. Wilson of the Ohio Department of Public Safety and Colonel Charles A. Jones, Superintendent of the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
The graduates are now ready to begin their law enforcement careers and help protect Ohio communities.
