Class of 2015 -- State Police
NEW TROOPERS: State Police Graduate 62 From Trooper School
August 1, 2015
By: Dave Rogers
Sixty-two new Michigan State Police (MSP) troopers, including several from mid-Michigan, reported for their first day of work at MSP posts this week, following their graduation from the 128th Trooper Recruit School.
Among local troopers and posts of interest are Tpr. Andrea Sutton, of Bay City, assigned to the Detroit metro post; Tpr. Jason Baxter of Mt. Morris, Caro Post; Tpr. Travis Hatfield, of Lapeer, Tpr. Kevin Pirvu, Clinton Township; and Tpr. Daniel Reynolds, Saginaw, all assigned to the Caro Post.
Tpr. Cole Martin, of Bay City, is assigned to the Flint Post and Tpr. Timothy Fink, of Saginaw, and Tpr. Jacquelyn Sasse of Midland, both are assigned to the West Branch Post.
"I commend these new troopers for their hard work and dedication in proving they have what it takes to join the ranks of the elite Michigan Department of State Police," stated graduation keynote speaker, Governor Rick Snyder. ?We wish them safe and rewarding careers as they stand on the front lines to serve and protect the citizens of our great state."
In her address to the graduates, MSP Director Col. Kriste Kibbey Etue said, "As you accept the honor of becoming troopers, I expect you to do what's right, to do your best and to treat others the way you want to be treated. In everything you do, I ask that you provide 'Service With a Purpose,' giving your attention to those who choose to break the law, as well as our law-abiding citizens."
Tpr. Derek Miller, who was elected Class Orator by his fellow recruits and received the Outstanding Performance Award, spoke on behalf of the graduating class. Other award recipients included Tpr. Robert McLean who received the Team Building Award, Tpr. Thomas Markey who received the Marksmanship Award and Tpr. Chad Conquergood who received the Academic Achievement Award.
The 128th Trooper Recruit School began on March 1, when 85 prospective troopers reported to the MSP Training Academy in Lansing. For the past 21 weeks, recruits received training in firearms, water safety, defensive tactics, patrol techniques, report writing, ethics, first aid, criminal law, crime scene processing and precision driving.
In order to be selected to attend the academy, all applicants had to pass a stringent selection process that included a physical fitness test, background investigation and hiring interview.
As part of the department's commitment to "Providing Service With A Purpose," the recruits participated in community outreach projects with the Boys and Girls Club of Lansing and Potter Park Zoo.
The MSP is actively recruiting; interested candidates should visit www.michigan.gov/mspjobs for more information on how to apply. The next trooper recruit school is anticipated to begin in June 2016.
There are currently 1,028 troopers assigned statewide.
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