Gov. Rick Scott welcomed 65 new troopers to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP). The
graduates of FHP’s Training Academy will join the nearly 1,800 troopers who patrol the state’s roads each day to provide protection and assistance to Florida residents and visitors. Governor Rick Scott said, “Florida’s crime rate is at a 44-year low, and as a father and grandfather, I am proud of the work of our law enforcement to keep Floridians safe. Today, I’m honored to congratulate the 65 graduates of the 130th
Florida Patrol Recruit Class. Thank you to the brave men and women of the Florida Highway Patrol for making Florida the best state in the country to live and raise a family.”
“We are proud that these men and women have selected law enforcement as their career, and we’re especially proud they have chosen the Florida Highway Patrol,” said Col. Brierton, director of the Florida Highway Patrol. “We offer a special thank you to the families for their support in helping these 65 new troopers achieve their goal to be among Florida’s finest.”
Members of the 130th basic recruit classes went through 28 weeks of intense physical and classroom training covering topics such as human relations, law, firearms, defensive tactics, vehicle operations and first aid. While at the academy, recruits also participated in several community service activities, including blood drives and volunteering to help those living with developmental disabilities.
FHP honored new Trooper Phillip Boutros with the Executive Director’s award for achieving the highest grade point average at the academy. The Patrol presented the Directors Award to new Trooper James Allen Jr. for demonstrating extraordinary courtesy and dedication during the 28 weeks of training.
Upon reporting to their duty stations, the new troopers will be placed with a certified Field Training Officer (FTO). Troopers will work in tandem with their respective FTO for up to 12 weeks period prior to being released to solo duty. These new troopers follow the proud traditions of 76 years of history.
This article originally appeared on Santa Rosa Press Gazette: FLORIDA HIGHWAY PATROL GRADUATES 65 NEW TROOPERS