A first occurred at the Lakeland Police Department Friday afternoon when Officer Felicia Wilson was promoted to Sergeant, becoming the first Afro-American female at the department to hold that rank. With family members and many friends in attendance, Sgt. Wilson took her oath of office and received her Sergeant Shield from from her husband, Lakeland Police Lt. Al Wilson.
Sgt. Wilson joined the Lakeland Police Department in 1994 and served in the Uniform Patrol Division, Special Investigations Division, and most recently in the School Resource Unit as a DARE Officer. She also serves as a member of the Honor Guard and the Hostage Negotiation Team. She was recognized as the Florida DARE Officer of the Year in 2002.
Sgt. Wilson earned a Bachelor's degree in business management from Saint Leo University in 2004 where she graduated Magna Cum Laude.
Chief Boatner noted the promotion of Sgt. Wilson (before a standing room only crowd) was historic and reflected the positive changes that are happening in Lakeland. As he does at all promotion ceremonies, Chief Boatner reminded Sgt. Wilson of the incredible responsibility that comes with a promotion.
We wish the best for Sgt. Wilson and congratulate her on the promotion to Sergeant. Once the excitement of the promotion ceremony subsides, she will be assigned to a night shift in Uniform Patrol Division.
-Asst Chief Bill LePere
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