52 recruits become Arkansas State Troopers

Fifty-two certified officer recruits recently became Arkansas State Troopers during a graduation ceremony at Camp Robinson, making it the largest graduating class since 1977.

The new Troopers were among an initial field of 230 applicants who were tested and interviewed before entering a 10-week training program, where they completed approximately 760 hours of specialized instruction and practical training.

The graduates were sworn under oath as Arkansas State Troopers by Arkansas Supreme Court Justice Cody Hiland, who served as the keynote speaker.

Colonel Mike Hagar, Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Public Safety, Major Roby Rhoads, Corporal Keondrick Thompson, and Sergeant Chad Staley addressed the class during the ceremony. ASP senior command staff, troop and company commanders, the training section cadre, ASP Commissioners and ASP Foundation members were among the audience.

The following list is where the recruits will be assigned their first post:

Highway Patrol Division

Troop C

Christopher Dunham, Victor Garcia, Cody Jackson, Carter Lazenby, Lydia Rogers, Nash Thomas, and Christian Underwood;

Criminal Investigation Division

Company C

Mark Fallis and Judson “Dalton” Myers

Internet Crimes Against Children Division

Danny Harris

Upon reporting for duty at their respective troop headquarters, the new troopers will be placed with a certified departmental Field Training Officer (FTO). Each graduate will work in tandem with their respective FTO for a transitional period prior to being released to their assignment.