by Seventy-four cadets officially joined the ranks of the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) following a graduation ceremony held at LCBC Manheim on Friday.
Commissioner Colonel Christopher Paris led the ceremony for the 172nd Cadet Class, marking a major step in the Shapiro Administration’s public safety initiatives.
The newly minted troopers will report for duty across various PSP troops beginning May 27, 2025.
What Happened
The PSP held a formal graduation ceremony on Friday to recognize the 172nd Cadet Class, consisting of 74 new troopers.
Colonel Christopher Paris commended the cadets for completing 27 weeks of rigorous training and announced their official status as Pennsylvania State Troopers.
Key Details
- The 172nd class is the second to graduate without a college credit requirement, a change implemented in August 2023.
- The policy shift resulted in 1,629 cadet applications during the latest cycle.
- The 2025–26 state budget proposal includes $16 million to fund four additional cadet classes, enabling the recruitment of nearly 400 more troopers.
- The proposal also seeks to eliminate the statutory cap on troopers, aiming to boost visibility and response times statewide.
Reactions or Statements
“Today is a great day for the State Police and Pennsylvania,” said Colonel Christopher Paris.
“I look forward to watching these dedicated women and men serve communities across the Commonwealth.”
Awards and Recognition
Six cadets received individual honors for outstanding achievements:
| Award | Recipient | Description |
|---|---|---|
| American Legion Award | Austin R. Sterenchock | Overall excellence in academics, ethics, fitness |
| Gesford High Pistol Award | Luke J. Lanzetta-Vargo | Highest pistol qualification score |
| John K. Schafer Memorial Award | Spencer M. Head | Top physical skills performance |
| Driver Proficiency Award | Charles T. Casey | Best performance in driver safety training |
| High Scholastic Award | Megan M. McMackin | Highest academic achievement |
| Leadership Award | Jayden S. Johnson | Outstanding leadership qualities |
Trooper Assignments by Location
Cadets will begin their assignments at various PSP troops:
| Troop Location | Number of Troopers | Notable Names |
|---|---|---|
| Troop A – Greensburg | 1 | Justin M. Fleck |
| Troop B – Washington | 13 | Megan M. McMackin, Tyler J. Murray |
| Troop D – Butler | 6 | Owen G. Sidun, Daniel J. Loeffler |
| Troop E – Erie | 6 | Spencer R. Beers, Adrianna N. Terwilliger |
| Troop F – Montoursville | 9 | Charles T. Casey, Brandon J. Hardiman |
| Troop H – Harrisburg | 8 | Logan B. Vance, Zachary J. Caldwell |
| Troop J – Lancaster | 14 | Sarah L. Aukerman, Gregory A. Hill |
| Troop K – Philadelphia | 11 | Luke J. Lanzetta-Vargo, Jayden S. Johnson |
| Troop L – Reading | 3 | Austin R. Sterenchock |
| Troop M – Bethlehem | 3 | Carl M. Deluca |
Investigation or What’s Next
Governor Josh Shapiro’s proposed budget for 2025–26 aims to:
- Sustain and grow PSP’s workforce
- Fund four new cadet classes
- Eliminate the cap on troopers, increasing statewide law enforcement presence
The PSP expects continued growth in applications due to the college waiver, making law enforcement careers more accessible.
FAQs
Q: When do the new troopers start duty?
A: They will report to their assigned troops on May 27, 2025.
Q: Is college required to become a PSP trooper?
A: No. As of August 2023, college credits are no longer required to apply.
Q: How many new troopers were sworn in?
A: 74 cadets officially became Pennsylvania State Troopers.
Q: What changes are proposed in the 2025–26 PSP budget?
A: Funding for 400 more troopers, four new cadet classes, and removal of the trooper cap.
Q: Who oversees the PSP?
A: The PSP is led by Commissioner Colonel Christopher Paris.
Summary / Final Takeaway
The Pennsylvania State Police continues to evolve with new recruitment standards and increased funding support. The 172nd Cadet Class represents a new generation of troopers committed to community safety.
With policy changes increasing accessibility and a push for expanded resources, the PSP is poised to strengthen its presence across the state.
