By: Richard L. Smith
Today, New Jersey State Police Superintendent Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, and New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin, presented badges to New Jersey’s newest state troopers during a graduation ceremony at Monmouth University in West Long Branch, N.J.
The 166th New Jersey State Police Class graduated 121 men and 3 women. Of this graduating class, 116 have college degrees, 17 are prior military, and 10 have prior law enforcement experience. Among the class, 57 were college athletes and 4 were firefighters.
The class completed 24 weeks of strenuous physical and academic training consisting of classroom lessons and practical training scenarios.
The recruits also participated in role-playing exercises such as motor vehicle stops and domestic violence situations. In the area of cultural diversity, the class received detailed instruction from community leaders and cultural organizations.
The life of a recruit is challenging in many ways. The New Jersey State Police Training Academy is one of the few residential academies in the nation. Recruits report to the academy before dawn on Monday morning, and they do not return home until dismissal on Friday evening.
Therefore, recruits are away from their families during significant life events. During this academy class two recruits had a child born and 8 recruits lost a family member.
The newly graduated troopers have been assigned to stations across the state. In the coming months, they will begin their careers under the mentorship of their Trooper-Coaches and direct supervisors.
“The graduates of the 166th Trooper Class exemplify the three principles that the New Jersey State Police have upheld for over a century: honor, duty, and fidelity,” said Governor Murphy. “Joining our State Troopers is a noble act, one that requires much dedication and sacrifice. I am thrilled to welcome this class into our ranks and look forward to witnessing their professional growth and success as they work to protect and serve the communities of our state moving forward.”
“It was my privilege to join with the families and loved ones of the 166th Trooper class to congratulate them on this hard-earned achievement,” said Acting Governor Tahesha Way. “In becoming State Troopers, this graduating class has embraced a calling that demands unwavering commitment to honor, duty, and fidelity. These principles are the cornerstone of a Trooper’s service to our state and people, and will guide them in upholding the law, protecting our communities, and ensuring justice for all.”
“The New Jersey State Police have served the people of New Jersey for more than 100 years with honor and distinction, and today’s graduates have received the rigorous training and preparation necessary to continue that tradition, while embracing the ever-changing needs of modern policing,” said Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin. “The class also exemplifies the diversity of our state. Some are the children of immigrants. Others first-generation Americans. Some are the first in their families to serve in law enforcement. Others represent generations of public service. Yet, they have come together for a common purpose – to serve the people of our great state, ensuring that our communities are safe places to live, to work, to go to school. I wish each of them great success as they begin their careers as New Jersey State Troopers.”
"Today is the end of training, but it is also the beginning of a rewarding and challenging career for these troopers. Policing is continually evolving to meet the challenges of our times. I know these troopers are committed to embracing change, adopting new technologies, and fostering community trust to better serve and protect our citizens," said Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. "I am confident they are fully prepared, resilient, and ready to serve. They embody the values of integrity, courage, and dedication. I look forward to seeing them become leaders and positively impact their communities."