Stanly Community College (SCC) recently honored a new class of Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) graduates during a ceremony held on its Albemarle campus. The event featured Chief Ryan Manley of the Albemarle Police Department as the keynote speaker.
The BLET program at SCC is a rigorous, full-time, five-month training program that equips students with the critical skills required for entry-level employment in law enforcement. The program now totals 880 instructional hours—an increase aligned with North Carolina’s updated statewide standards that took effect in 2025. The expanded curriculum includes enhanced instruction in officer wellness, communication, de-escalation tactics, and firearms training.
“Our Basic Law Enforcement Training program produces more than graduates—it produces leaders,” said Dr. John Enamait, President of Stanly Community College. “These individuals have committed themselves to serving and protecting our communities with integrity, courage, and a deep understanding of the responsibility that comes with wearing the badge. Completing nearly 900 hours of intensive training is no small feat—it’s a testament to their discipline, heart, and resilience.”
Michael Honeycutt served as the class speaker during the ceremony.
Cadets cannot enter the BLET program without sponsorship from a recognized law enforcement agency. The following agencies supported members of this graduating class: Mint Hill Police Department, Alcohol Law Enforcement, Stanly County Sheriff’s Department, Albemarle Police Department, and the North Carolina Highway Patrol.
Several students were recognized for their outstanding performance in specific areas:
- Top Academic Award – Nicholas Rosario
- Top Shooter/Firearms Award – Eli Hudson
- Top Driver Award – Nicholas Rosario
- Leadership Award – Michael Honeycutt
In addition, Blake Moore received the Damon Smith Award, established in memory of Officer Damon Smith of the Oakboro Police Department, who lost his life in the line of duty.
Upon completion of the program, graduates earn a curriculum certificate and are eligible to take the state certification exam mandated by the North Carolina Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Commission and/or the North Carolina Sheriffs’ Education and Training Standards Commission. This class achieved a 100% pass rate on the exam, a testament to their hard work and dedication.
SCC’s next BLET class will begin in January 2026.
For more information about the program, contact David Esposito at 704-991-0269 or by email at desposito2736@stanly.edu. Additional details are also available at www.stanly.edu.