Alton Officer Zach Oster Graduates From Police Academy

Deputies Morales Cuevas, Watson and Darity graduated from Session 159, beginning the next stage of their law enforcement careers in Madison County.

Sep 10, 2026 10:15 AM Sep 10, 2026 10:30 AM

Listen to the story

BELLEVILLE — Alton Police Officer Zach Oster graduated Friday, Sept. 4, 2026, from the Southwestern Illinois College Police Academy in Belleville, completing the academy portion of his training before continuing in the Alton Police Department’s Field Training Program, the department said.

Get The Latest News!

Don't miss our top stories and need-to-know news everyday in your inbox.

Oster will continue developing his skills with a field training officer, according to the department.

Article continues after sponsor message

Connect with Riverbend Readers - advertise with us today!!

Purchase Bethalto Homecoming Presale Ride Tickets and Save $10

Shop Local

Bethalto Homecoming Association

Get This Deal →

The Madison County Sheriff’s Office also announced that Deputies Morales Cuevas, Watson and Darity graduated from the Southwestern Illinois Police Academy’s Session 159.

“Please join us in congratulating these three dedicated deputies on this incredible accomplishment and wishing them a safe, fulfilling, and rewarding career as they begin this next chapter of service,” the sheriff’s office said.

The Alton Police Department also asked the public to congratulate Oster and welcome him to the department.