CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (WSIL) -- Southeast Missouri State University's Law Enforcement Academy is undergoing a $1.5 million renovation, funded in part by a grant from the U.S. Department of Justice’s COPS program. This project aims to enhance training facilities and strengthen public safety in the region.
The renovation includes 3,000 square feet of new space for law enforcement training. Plans include multiple new simulation environments and a dedicated defensive tactics area for physical training scenarios.
Since 1987, SEMO's academy has trained over 3,000 officers serving in southeast Missouri.
“These upgrades will take our academy to the next level,� said Dan Presson, assistant vice president of economic and workforce development at SEMO. “By investing in cutting-edge training tools and facilities, we’re not only supporting our cadets, but we’re also investing in the safety and strength of our region’s communities.�
SEMO Director of Public Safety Dr. Richard Flotron emphasized the improvements will benefit the entire region.
“This investment allows us to train future officers in environments that reflect the complex realities they’ll face in the field,� said Flotron. “With modern simulation tools and expanded facilities, we’re preparing cadets to make critical decisions with confidence, professionalism, and a deep understanding of community engagement. This isn’t just an upgrade in infrastructure—it’s a transformation in how we train law enforcement. It showcases SEMO as a leader in forward-thinking, community-centered policing, benefiting public safety across the region for years to come.�
The renovation also fosters collaboration between SEMO’s Law Enforcement Academy, the Department of Public Safety, and the Department of Criminal Justice. It introduces a streamlined admissions pathway for prospective officers, making the academy more accessible.
This project underscores SEMO’s leadership in workforce development and dedication to excellence in policing.
For more information on SEMO's Law Enforcement Academy, you can find it .
