The POBA graduates pose for a photo with Commander Trussell. Front row, from left to right: WSCO POBA Commander Scott Trussell, POBA Cadets Jarrett Jones, John Schmidt, and Adan Kelly. Back row, from left to right: POBA Cadets Adam Hinton, Jarion Stitt, and Derrick Plaugher. (Photo Provided)

Staff Reports

MARIETTA — Washington State College of Ohio’s (WSCO) Peace Officer Basic Academy (POBA) has once again achieved a 100% pass rate on both the Physical Fitness exam and the Ohio Peace Officer Training Commission (OPOTC) exam.

“I want to commend all the cadets for the hard work and determination each of them put into the academy, their hard work has paid off with passing the State Certification exam,” said Commander Trussell. “These cadets are amazing young men who will make amazing Peace Officers for any law enforcement agency,” continued Trussell.

This marks the second group of cadets under Trussell’s leadership at WSCO. Passing both the PT and OPOTC exams is a requirement for POBA graduates, ensuring they are prepared for the physical and professional demands of a law enforcement career.

Beyond exam preparation, WSCO’s POBA program provides cadets with weekly classroom assessments, hands-on training, and instruction from active law enforcement professionals. This structure equips graduates with practical skills, valuable networking opportunities, and strong community connections. In fact, many cadets secure job offers with local agencies before even completing the program.

In addition, WSCO offers cadets the opportunity to apply their POBA training toward a Criminal Justice degree, creating a seamless pathway to further education and career advancement. Financial aid is available, ensuring the program remains accessible to all qualified students.

Achieving a second consecutive 100% pass rate is a testament to the high standards of WSCO’s POBA program, the hard work of its cadets, and the leadership of Commander Trussell. Together, they continue to position WSCO’s academy as a leader in law enforcement education.

The next Peace Officer Basic Academy begins Oct. 20. For more information about the POBA program at WSCO, contact Commander Scott Trussell at strussell@wscc.edu

For more information about Washington State College of Ohio, visit www.wsco.edu or call 740.374.8716.