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�����ؿ� cadet Jordan Wilmore graduated from the police academy on July 7, marking the next step in his path toward a career in law enforcement.

Wilmore, a 24-year-old Kemah resident, has drawn attention throughout the Houston area for his perseverance and his 7-foot, 3-inch height, making him a standout among law enforcement recruits in Texas.

Wilmore’s path was not without setbacks. After completing his initial academy training, he narrowly missed passing the Texas peace officer licensing exam by one point. Instead of walking away, he continued training, studied for the exam again and passed.

His determination also drew support from beyond the �����ؿ� campus. NBA Hall of Famer Shaquille O’Neal, who has his own background in law enforcement, followed Wilmore’s journey and stepped in after learning he had narrowly missed the state licensing exam. O’Neal encouraged Wilmore, offered financial support to help him continue his training and discussed helping provide a vehicle suited for his future law enforcement career.

For Wilmore’s instructors and supporters at �����ؿ�, the moment he passed the exam showed how much the journey had meant.

“Jordan came and sat in my office right after passing the TCOLE exam,” said Dr. John J. Murray, Executive Director of the Center of Excellence. “I wish anyone who ever doubted him could have seen him in that moment. He did not need to say a word to show what this meant to him, how hard he worked for it and the weight he carried through this journey.

“It was victory, gratitude and humility wrapped together. I look forward to seeing what he accomplishes next with Kemah PD.”

Wilmore also was sworn in with the Kemah Police Department on July 7.

“We expect a lot from our cadets, and all of them worked very hard during their time in the academy,” said Crystal L. Taylor, Department Chair of Criminal Justice and Training Coordinator for the Law Enforcement Academy. “Jordan, however, came to us with more pressure than most cadets to prove himself, and he handled it with humility and perseverance that will serve him well in his career.

“Law enforcement is about so much more than size. It is about mental fortitude, patience and staying calm under pressure, all characteristics Jordan exhibited in this class. Jordan wants to help others, and he has more than proven he has the heart for law enforcement. I look forward to seeing where his career takes him, because he earned it.”

�����ؿ�’s Law Enforcement Academy prepares future peace officers through comprehensive training that meets Texas Commission on Law Enforcement objectives, hands-on, scenario-based instruction and preparation for the state licensing examination.