Brooklyn Center Hires Two More Officers Under Multicultural Cadet Program

The Brooklyn Center police department is adding more diversity to its force. The city recently sworn-in Kevin Nochez and Joseph Vu. The two took part in the multicultural cadet program before becoming officers.

Protecting and serving is in Kevin Nochez’s blood.

“On Halloween, I was always either a police officer or a firefighter for my costumes when I was younger,” he said.

His dream became a reality when he was sworn-in as a Brooklyn Center police officer.

“Being that middle person, just being able to help someone out, I think, is a full nature of a police officer,” explained Nochez.

The multicultural cadet program provided tuition assistance and gave Nochez a road map for getting a job after he graduated from college. The goal of the program is to create a more diverse workforce that is reflective of the community.

“I’ve had it on a lot of occasions where people see me, see the color of my skin and notice that I speak another language,” said the 22-year-old officer, who is the only Hispanic officer.  “So, when I can relate to them and speak to them in Spanish, sometimes it kind of makes it easier for them.”

Brooklyn Center Multicultural Cadet Program

Officer Joseph Vu was also participated in the multicultural program and was recently sworn-in.

“I never grew up wanting to be a cop. I joined the Explorer program, which helped me gain an interest,” said Vu.

He’s the only Vietnamese officer on the Brooklyn Center police force.

“I do speak Vietnamese.” Said Vu. “I have been on a call before where I’ve had to use it. Granted, I’ve only been a cop for a few months. Hopefully, down the line, it will need to be used more.”

The crime fighters say the best part of this job is engaging with the people they serve.

“Being able to help people every day is a blessing to me,” said Nochez.

Building trust and being able to relate is also a plus.

“Hopefully, it can dispel those misconceptions about police when there’s a more diverse police presence,” said Vu.

The Multicultural Cadet Program is part of the Hennepin County Human Services, Joint Community Police Partnership or JCPP. The program has helped approximately 30 people to date. Unfortunately, in 2020, the County will not pay for the cadet program as a part of JCPP. Some of the cities plan to continue funding the program as they have seen great value from it. Brooklyn Center is one of these cities.

To see a special report about Cops in the Community, click here.

Brooklyn Center