The Ottumwa Police Department is congratulating Officer Blake Buseman and Officer Tallon Bates following their graduation from the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy (ILEA) on Friday, August 21, 2026.
Buseman and Bates completed 16 weeks of intensive training at ILEA, preparing them for their careers in law enforcement and service to the community.
Beginning this week, both officers will enter a 14-week Field Training Program. During this phase, they will work alongside experienced officers while gaining hands-on experience and further developing the skills they learned at the academy.
The Ottumwa Police Department said it is proud to welcome both officers to the department and looks forward to their continued service to the Ottumwa community.
Those pictured following the graduation are Lieutenant Jason Parmenter, Officer Blake Buseman, Officer Tallon Bates, and Police Chief Chad Farrington.
Source: Ottumwa Police Department Facebook page.
