Bainbridge LEO finds his calling working with kids

Officer Leroy Akins III began his law enforcement career with the City of Bainbridge in 2016. He was dual certified as police officer and a firefighter at that time, but did not pursue a Criminal Justice degree just yet. Innovative community-oriented policing programs like Kids ‘n Kops solidified his commitment to the young people that he was protecting and serving as a police officer. Seeking more proactive work with kids, Officer Akins accepted a position as a resource officer with Bainbridge High School three years ago.

It has proven to be an excellent career move. “The best part of this job here? I am with the kids all day long. I have an opportunity to be a positive presence in their lives before they may go out and get into trouble. I can help these kids avoid trouble and keep them on track. Sometimes they just need someone to talk to, and I am always happy to talk with them. The schoolhouse is their safe place, and I am part of keeping them safe.”

Every day, Officer Akins brings his partner Cupka to work. Cupka (Codename: Bearcat 1) is a hardworking two-year-old Belgian Malinois / German Shepard mix who was born in Croatia. She and Officer Akins trained together to be a drug deterrent team for Bainbridge High School. In doing so, Cupka became the first certified police school dog in the region. The K9 team is now a familiar sight around campus, where Officer Akins says that their presence serves to make students feel safer and encouraged to be on their best behavior.

In 2021, Officer Akins decided that he was ready to pursue his Criminal Justice degree and further his career. Taking classes online, he said that returning to college as an adult was the right choice for him. “I am now smarter. I am more relaxed. I know how to schedule my day, and I know how to push myself to get it done.” The Associate of Science in Criminal Justice is a five-semester program that prepares students for a wide array of Criminal Justice professions.

Before Criminal Justice instructor Rusty Day came to teach at SRTC-Bainbridge, he served with Officer Akins on the force, so he was thrilled with Officer Akins decided to return to college. He said that Akins is, “the most positive person I have ever met. The word excellence comes to mind with anything involving him!”

Officer Akins completed his Criminal Justice degree this semester, just as his wife is beginning work on her Social Work degree at SRTC. Officer Akins plans to remain at Bainbridge High School, where he hopes to one day begin teaching Criminal Justice classes for the dual enrollment program.