2025 News Release

148 Troopers Receive Badges at Brookdale Community College

Lincroft, NJ – Today, New Jersey State Police Superintendent Colonel Patrick J. Callahan and Governor Phil Murphy presented badges to New Jersey’s newest state troopers during a graduation ceremony at Brookdale Community College in Lincroft, NJ.

The 167th New Jersey State Police Class graduated 138 men and 10 women. Of this graduating class, 143 have college degrees, 15 are prior military, and 16 have prior law enforcement experience. Among the class, 57 were college athletes and 2 were firefighters.

The class completed 26 weeks of strenuous physical and academic training consisting of classroom lessons and practical training scenarios. The recruits also participated in role-playing exercises such as motor vehicle stops and domestic violence situations. In the area of cultural diversity, the class received detailed instruction from community leaders and cultural organizations. This was the first recruit class to visit both the African American Museum and the Holocaust Museum in Washington, D.C., gaining valuable insight into pivotal moments in history. These experiences help future law enforcement officers understand the impact of injustice, strengthen their commitment to protecting the rights of all people, and guide them in building trust within the communities they serve.

Life as a recruit is demanding—physically, mentally, and emotionally. The New Jersey State Police Training Academy is one of the few fully residential academies in the nation, requiring an extraordinary level of commitment. Each Monday before sunrise, recruits report for duty and remain at the academy until dismissal on Friday evening. During those days, they are separated from loved ones, often missing birthdays, milestones, and other important life events. This sacrifice reflects their dedication to the calling of public service and their unwavering commitment to protecting the people of New Jersey. During this academy class, two recruits had a child born, and six recruits experienced the loss of a family member.

Of the recruits in the current class, 108 have family members who are either active or retired from law enforcement. They have grown up seeing the challenges, sacrifices, and risks of the profession firsthand—and yet, they have chosen to step forward and serve. Their decision reflects not only courage but a deep understanding of the responsibility that comes with wearing the badge.

The newly graduated troopers have been assigned to stations throughout the state. In the coming months, they will begin their careers under the guidance of their Trooper-Coaches and direct supervision.

“The graduates of the 167th Trooper Class have demonstrated the three principles of the New Jersey State Police: honor, duty, and fidelity,” said Governor Murphy. “As they join our ranks today, I commend them for their dedication and sacrifice in service to the people of New Jersey. I look forward to witnessing their continued growth and success as they work to protect and serve the communities of our state.”

“Today 148 New Jerseyans joined the ranks of the New Jersey State Police. They represent a vast cross-section of the people that make up our incredibly diverse state, yet they are united by their common goal – serving the 9.5 million people who call New Jersey home. They will no doubt face countless challenges throughout their careers, but I am confident this shared commitment to serving their neighbors, friends, and families will guide them each day in their pursuit of justice for all. I commend them for graduating from the Academy and thank them for their dedication, service, and sacrifice.”

"Today's graduation is a proud milestone for these new troopers and the Division. They have demonstrated the discipline, commitment, and character required to serve with honor, duty, and fidelity, the core values of the New Jersey State Police. They stand ready to meet the challenges of a changing world, foster transparency, and build trust with the communities they serve," said Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. "Although they have completed their time at the academy, they will continue their training and professional growth throughout their careers as they uphold their solemn commitment to protect and serve the people of New Jersey."

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