By Police1 Staff
ST. PAUL, Minn. — After telling reporters five months ago that he wanted to become a reserve officer, Philando Castile’s uncle officially became one last week.
KARE reports that Clarence Castile and 14 others graduated from the St. Paul Police Reserve Academy after 12 weeks of training. As a reserve officer, Castile will offer support to members of St. Paul PD. Castile said he wanted to become an officer to let children and future generations know that police officers are nothing to be afraid of.
Castile’s nephew, Philando Castile, was shot and killed by Officer Jeronimo Yanez during a traffic stop in July 2016. His death was captured on Facebook live and went viral, sparking protests. In June 2017, Yanez was cleared in the investigation into the shooting.
“I think about my nephew every day. Part of this is about him,” Clarence Castile said. “I don’t want people to be afraid. Police aren’t here to hurt you even though you’ve heard stories and you’ve seen things on TV but all of that isn’t everything.”
St. Paul Commander John Lozoya said Castile will find fulfillment as he gets involved in the community and will gain a deeper understanding of the job.