Governor Wes Moore presided over the graduation ceremony of the 156th Maryland State Police Academy Class on Friday, welcoming 52 new troopers to the ranks of the state police. The ceremony was held at the Maryland State Police Academy in Sykesville, Carroll County, and was attended by family members, friends, and colleagues of the new troopers.
MARYLAND NEWS
In his remarks, Governor Moore praised the new troopers for their dedication and commitment to serving the people of Maryland. He emphasized the importance of community policing and building trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
“Your job is not just to enforce the law, but to be a partner with the community in preventing crime and making our neighborhoods safer,” Governor Moore said. “I believe in your ability to do this job with honor, integrity, and compassion.”
The new troopers completed a rigorous 27-week training program that included classroom instruction, physical fitness training, and practical exercises in firearms, defensive tactics, and emergency vehicle operations. They will now begin their careers as troopers, serving in various capacities throughout the state.
Maryland State Police Address Recruitment and Retention Challenges
The graduation of the 156th Maryland State Police Academy Class comes when law enforcement agencies across the country face challenges in recruiting and retaining officers. The Maryland State Police is no exception, with a shortage of troopers in some areas.
To address these challenges, the Maryland State Police has launched a recruitment campaign aimed at attracting a diverse pool of candidates to the agency. The campaign includes targeted advertising, social media outreach, and community organizations and school partnerships.
In addition, the Maryland State Police has implemented a retention program to keep experienced troopers on the force. The program includes incentives for soldiers who stay with the agency, such as bonuses, promotions, and opportunities for specialized training.
“We recognize the importance of recruiting and retaining the best and brightest to serve in our agency,” said Colonel Woodrow W. Jones III, superintendent of the Maryland State Police. “We are committed to providing our troopers with the resources and support they need to succeed in their careers and positively impact the communities they serve.”
The graduation of the 156th Maryland State Police Academy Class is a testament to the agency’s commitment to recruiting and training the next generation of law enforcement officers. With Governor Moore’s support and Colonel Jones’s leadership, the Maryland State Police is well-positioned to meet the challenges of law enforcement in the 21st century.
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