Arkansas Graduates Largest Class of State Troopers In 46 Years

While some states still seem to be looking for ways to defund their police forces, Arkansas happily graduated its largest class of State Troopers in 46 years last week.

Arkansas State Police Troop School Class 2023-B

52 newly certified Arkansas State Troopers graduated their recruit class last Thursday, just before the Christmas Holiday weekend. The Graduation ceremony took place at Camp Robinson in North Little Rock. This is the largest graduating class since 1977.

Jonathan Nettles

These 52 made it through the interview and screening process along with a 10-week training program from 230 initial applicants. During their training, the class completed approximately 760 hours of specialized instruction and practical training.

Arkansas State Police - Canva

The keynote speaker for the evening was Arkansas Supreme Court Justice Cody Hiland who also swore in the new Troopers.

According to the Press Release, Colonel Mike Hagar, Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Public Safety, Major Roby Rhoads, Corporal Keondrick Thompson, and Sergeant Chad Staley addressed the class during the ceremony. ASP senior command staff, troop and company commanders, the training section cadre, ASP Commissioners and ASP Foundation members were among the audience.

Arkansas State Capitol with State Trooper Badge - Canva

Special recognition and awards were presented to the recruits who attained the highest scores within the respective training categories listed as follows:

Academics:
1st place – Lydia Rogers
2nd place – Trey Smith
3rd place – Dylan Evans

Physical Fitness:
1st place – Justin Shackleford
2nd place – Shane Fox
3rd place – Hunter Grubbs

Firearms:
1st place – David Whipple
2nd place – Dylan Evans
3rd place – Lydia Rogers

Emergency Vehicle Operator Course (EVOC)
1st place – Tyler Ryals
2nd place – Mark Fallis
3rd place – Tre’ Davis

Arkansas State Troopers Class 2023-B - ASP

Congratulations to the new State Troopers who will be reporting to their new troop headquarters and continuing their training with certified departmental Field Training Officers.

For more information, check out the ASP Facebook Page.

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