Police Cadet Supports Mother While Finishing School

Frank Slabenak's father passed away in November and the 19-year-old cadet at the Palos Park Police Department is working toward a degree in criminal science.

Frank Slabenak knew he wanted to be a police officer at a young age. Unlike many boys who play cops and robbers, Slabenak's interest compelled him to actually do something about it. At the age of 12, Slabenak became a cadet with the Palos Park Police Department. Seven years later, this 19-year-old man from Palos Park is still with the department, working as a clerk, and is currently studying criminal justice at Moraine Valley Community College. Within two years, he plans to graduate with an associate degree and start part-time training to become a police officer. Slabenak was recently awarded the Palos Park Police Cadet Scholarship to help pay for schooling. But the money is coming at a somber time. His father, also named Frank Slabenak, …

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