News

Twenty Percent of Newest N.J. State Police Class are Hispanic

Published June 27, 2009

Graduation ceremonies for the latest State Police class took place on Friday, June 26th in Toms River. On hand to help welcome the new troopers were Gov. Jon Corzine and Attorney General Anne Milgram.

According to a State Police press release, the 150th class is the most diverse class in the organization’s history. Nearly one-third of the 104 newly-anointed troopers are minorities with Hispanics numbering twenty-two.

Commenting on the diversity, State Police Superintendent Colonel Joseph R. Fuentes told the graduates and their families that “...their backgrounds, coupled with their highly effective training will equip them to enforce the laws of our state constitutionally, fairly and without bias. I have no doubt this training has prepared them for the demanding yet rewarding career of protecting the citizens of the state of New Jersey.”

Candidates applying to the State Police are required to have a minimum of sixty college credits plus two years of work experience, a bachelor’s degree, or thirty college credits plus two years of active military service. Once accepted, they endure twenty-six weeks of strenuous physical and academic training.

Gov. Corzine thanked the graduates for their commitment and service, saying “As you embark on your new assignments, I am confident you will uphold the traditions of honor, duty and fidelity of this great law enforcement organization.”

State President Hector Ramos and NJSP Chapter President Julian Castellanos welcome all new enlisted members and wish them a safe and successful career.

Star-Ledger video of ceremony