A Steelville local is returning to his hometown police department to serve his community after graduating on April 24 from the Law Enforcement Training Institute (LETI) in Columbia.

Brandon Schneider was selected through the Steelville Police Department’s sponsorship program, which supports recruits through the academy before bringing them on as full-time officers. Chief of Police Mike Sherman said that it was during Schneider’s interview for the sponsorship program that he knew he’d be the right fit for the department and town.

“He answered the questions in a manner that made it feel like he was really a person who cares about his community, and wanted to do well for his community,” Sherman said. “He knows how to talk to people…and that’s what will make you a good officer.”

When Sherman gave him the call to let him know he was selected, he said he could hear the excitement in Schneider’s voice. The recruit spent the next four months receiving his training at LETI. His first day with the department was the day after his graduation.

“He has a real strong willingness to learn things,” Sherman said. “He said he wants to do something that he can be proud of.”