Governor Wes Moore Welcomes New Troopers to the Ranks During 156th Maryland State Police Academy Class Graduation

Per the State of Maryland: Governor Wes Moore today welcomed the 156th class of the Maryland Department of State Police during a graduation ceremony held at Lifepoint Church in Reisterstown. The governor delivered the keynote address to the department’s 26 new members and their families and friends, in addition to law enforcement leadership and local officials in attendance.

“Whether this day was something you hoped would come since you were little or a day that didn’t seem possible just a few years ago: You’ve shown us what it means to serve,” said Gov. Moore. “It’s not just that your service is impressive and inspiring—it’s that your service is a choice. You will make that choice again, and again, and again—to serve in the face of hardship; serve in the face of doubt, and risk, and fear—and I know you are ready to take on the challenge.”

Class 156 completed 28 weeks at the Maryland Department of State Police residential training academy, known as one of most intense and comprehensive state police training programs in the country. During six months of strict discipline and a demanding schedule, trooper candidates received instruction to include criminal and traffic laws, emergency care, emergency driving, physical training, and scenario-based training that includes de-escalation and conflict resolution.

“Remember the three words you heard throughout your Academy training: Integrity, fairness and service. They are the core values that will guide you in every decision you make as a Maryland State Trooper,” said Maryland State Police Superintendent Colonel Roland L. Butler, Jr. “As troopers, each and every assignment will be an opportunity for you to give back to your community. Demand of yourself that every assignment be meaningful and you will discover how satisfying the job of public service can be.”

Following a brief period of leave, the new troopers will report to barracks across Maryland to begin eight weeks of practical instruction with field training troopers. Upon successful completion of their field training, they will be permitted to patrol alone. Governor Moore previously announced historic initiatives and investment in public safety to support rebuilding the State police force and reduce crime across Maryland. To rebuild and elevate the police force, the Maryland Department of State Police is leading on providing cross-jurisdictional resources; cultivating a culture that retains, advances, and rewards the most effective and ethical law enforcement professionals; renewing commitment to transparency; and working with state agencies and local partners to leverage data to promote intelligence sharing and collaborative enforcement strategy.

For more information about a career as a Maryland state trooper, visit http://mdsp.maryland.gov/Careers/Pages/default.aspx.