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New Troopers Join Pennsylvania State Police Amid Recruitment Changes

Graduation ceremony celebrates the entry of 74 new troopers into the Pennsylvania State Police.

News Summary

On May 16, 2025, Pennsylvania welcomed 74 new troopers during a graduation ceremony at LCBC Manheim. This class represents a shift in recruitment practices, as it is the second to graduate without a college credit requirement. Governor Shapiro’s budget proposal seeks to add more personnel to boost public safety across the state. These graduates will be assigned across various regions, enhancing law enforcement capabilities in urban and rural areas alike.

Pennsylvania welcomed 74 new troopers into the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) during a graduation ceremony held on May 16, 2025, at LCBC Manheim in Lancaster County. This significant event underscores the ongoing efforts to bolster law enforcement across the state, particularly in light of recent changes to recruitment practices.

Among the newly minted troopers, Nathaniel Penko, Austin R. Sterenchock, and Shaun P. Sweeney have been assigned to Troop L, which services Berks County and its neighboring areas. These three graduates will start their assignments at the Reading station on May 27, 2025, contributing to local law enforcement efforts.

During the graduation ceremony, PSP Commissioner Colonel Christopher Paris highlighted the dedication of the graduates, acknowledging their hard work throughout the rigorous 27-week training program. The new troopers underwent extensive training to prepare them for the challenges of modern policing.

Notably, Austin R. Sterenchock was awarded the American Legion Award, which recognizes exceptional performance in academics, physical fitness, ethics, and moral character, showcasing the high standards upheld within the academy.

This graduating class marks a milestone as it is the second to complete the PSP Academy without a college credit requirement. This significant policy change, initiated by the Shapiro Administration in August 2023, aims to widen the pool of applicants for the PSP, and it appears to be yielding positive results. Following the elimination of the college credit prerequisite, the PSP reported a surge in applications, receiving a record 1,629 submissions in the latest recruitment cycle.

In a bid to further enhance the PSP’s capabilities, Governor Josh Shapiro has proposed a budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year that includes $16 million to fund four additional cadet classes. This initiative could see nearly 400 new troopers added to the force statewide. The budget proposal also aims to lift the existing statutory cap on the total number of troopers, which is expected to improve patrol visibility and response times throughout Pennsylvania.

The 74 new troopers are expected to be deployed across various regions, with assignments not only in Berks County but also in larger urban areas such as Lancaster, Philadelphia, Harrisburg, and Erie. This strategic distribution of new personnel aims to address community needs and enhance public safety.

As the Pennsylvania State Police continues to adapt to changing circumstances and needs, the integration of these new troopers is a crucial step in maintaining effective law enforcement across the state. The addition of personnel, coupled with a new recruitment strategy, signifies a commitment to ensuring that the PSP remains well-equipped to serve and protect all Pennsylvania residents.

For individuals interested in learning more about the PSP or seeking application details, further information is available at www.patrooper.com.