The Field Training Officer (FTO) provides on-the-job training to new recruits so they can transition their classroom knowledge to real world policing. This month’s Cleveland Police Foundation Police Officer of the Month is an expert in that field—proven by the following nomination provided by fellow 4th District Officer David Bloxton:
Patrol Officer Robert Farren is currently assigned to Cleveland’s 4th District Patrol, B Squad. Officer Farren maintains the highest level of professionalism, and displays his outstanding pride for being a police officer every day. His dedication to the City of Cleveland and the members of the Division of Police is presented daily through his duties as a patrolman and Field Training Officer (FTO).
Officer Farren joined the United States Marine Corps, and after completing his enlistment, joined the Cleveland Police in April 2015 in Class 134. His display of excellent leadership led to his acceptance into the FTO program, where he quickly began shaping new Probationary Police Officers (PPOs) to become outstanding officers who exhibit Cleveland’s mantra of P.R.I.D.E. (Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Dedication, and Excellence).
Officer Farren took the next step in becoming a well-rounded FTO by completing the rigorous training to become a certified Patrol Rifle Operator. He ensures his PPOs receive extensive experience, often taking on a wide range of calls to teach proper tactics and the importance of detail. While some FTOs may rotate out between training phases, Officer Farren ensures he always has a PPO under his guidance, recognizing the value of consistent, quality training.
He is also recognized by peers and leadership as a source of reliable insight, and regularly shares his knowledge with fellow officers. Officer Farren is known to visit residents and local businesses to build lasting community relationships.
Officer Farren’s commitment to training, leadership, and community outreach sets a powerful example—both on patrol and behind the scenes. It is because of this dedication that the Cleveland Police Foundation is proud to recognize Officer Robert Farren as our Police Officer of the Month for March 2025.
– Bob Guttu, CPF
Nominated by 4th District Patrol Officer David Bloxton
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About the Police Officer of the Month Program
The Cleveland Police Foundation – in partnership with the Cleveland Division of Police, Cleveland Police Patrolmen’s Association, and the Fraternal Order of Police Cleveland Lodge 8 – is proud of the Police Officer of the Month program. The program’s purpose is to recognize members of the Cleveland Division of Police who not only perform their duties in an exemplary and extraordinary manner, but also excel in efforts that are consistent with a major tenet of the CPF’s mission to strengthen the bonds between citizens and police officers… building bridges, creating opportunities for dialogue, and forging positive relationships within the community.
Already aware that officers in the Cleveland Division of Police routinely go out of their way to help their fellow citizens, committee members are not surprised by the large number of candidates. With so many outstanding officers, selecting one recipient per month proved to be a somewhat daunting task.
When asked why bestow these awards, CPF Executive Director Charles W. Lane, Jr. states, “In today’s busy world, while some deeds may seem fairly insignificant, we hold out hope that such random acts of kindness may have a significant impact on a person’s life. Even if not, it’s nice to know that our police officers do for others what they would want someone else to do for a member of their family if the opportunity presented itself.”
Police officers across this great country perform similar deeds day-in and day-out, with little fanfare and really not seeking, nor even wanting recognition. We commend these officers for their compassion and personal commitment to making our city a better place to live.