Detective’s son graduates police academy

As a young child, Carlton Alexander Williamson would run around the house wearing his dad’s police hat, his boots, and at least once, even his radio. He credits both parents as his heroes, but observing his father, Carlton Williamson, work in the community and rise to become a Boston police detective was part of his motivation to become an officer himself.

Last Thursday, the younger Williamson graduated as president of Boston Police Academy Recruit Class 60-20 at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center.

“Just hearing some of the stories of things that he’s accomplished inspired me to be a police officer and get out in the community and help other people,” Williamson said.

Acting Mayor Kim Janey greets newly sworn-in officer Carlton Alexander Williamson, president of the Boston Police Academy Recruit Class 60-20, as his father, Det. Carlton Williamson, looks on. PHOTO: ANGELA ROWLINGS

After studying criminal justice at Bridgewater State University and serving as an officer on the Easton force for more than three years, Williamson joined Boston’s class of 94 police recruits.

“I always wanted to be a Boston police officer,” he said. “Boston is always where my heart really gravitated towards ever since I was a kid.”

Detective Williamson pinned a badge on his son, then kissed his cheek as acting Mayor Kim Janey and acting Police Commissioner Gregory Long looked on.

“He told me he’s very proud of me,” said Officer Williamson said of his dad. “His main concern is making sure I stay safe.”

The 94 graduates in this year’s class include 61 whites, 17 Latinos, 16 African Americans and three Asian Americans. Men made up 85% of the class.

In his address to the graduates, Long reminded the class to rely on their training and on each other when they face challenges in the field.

“One of the most powerful aspects of policing is the ability to have a meaningful impact on someone’s life. Every day you go to work, every interaction that you have, every shift that you work, you’re going to have that opportunity,” Long said. “Embrace that opportunity to have a positive impact on someone’s life.”

Long also advised the newly sworn-in officers to maintain their fitness routines that began in November with runs from the police academy in Hyde Park, and to work with the community they serve.

“Police departments rise and fall on the trust the community has in the department, a relationship a department has with the community,” Long said. “Every day you go to work, build on those relationships, build that trust, problem-solve with the community, embrace that partnership.”