PIKEVILLE — The Kentucky State Police (KSP) announced the graduation of 33 new troopers from its Training Academy. Among the graduates are Timothy Fletcher of Salyersville and Nicholas Howell of Betsy Layne, who will both serve at KSP Post 9 in Pikeville.
Captain Randal Surber, commander of Post 9, welcomed the new troopers with enthusiasm.
“We are proud to welcome them not only to our agency but more specifically to our Post 9 district,” Surber said. “We look forward to the positive impact they will make in serving and protecting our communities. This marks one of many special milestones in their journey—and the beginning of what we hope will be a long, successful and rewarding career in law enforcement.”
The graduating Cadet Class 105 reported to the KSP Academy on Nov. 10, embarking on 24 weeks of rigorous academic and physical training. Their instruction included over 1,000 hours of coursework. Areas of study included constitutional and traffic law, weapons and defensive tactics, criminal investigations, vehicle pursuit, search and seizure, crash and crowd control, hostage negotiations, and handling of hazardous materials, among others.
Trooper Timothy Fletcher also earned an associate degree in General Occupational and Technical Studies from Bluegrass Community and Technical College. He joined 16 fellow cadets in achieving this educational milestone. This opportunity stems from a 2017 change in state hiring standards. Candidates with a high school diploma or GED and three years of full-time work experience can pursue a college degree during training at the academy.
The new troopers will carry forward the KSP’s mission: to promote public safety with service, integrity and professionalism. They will work in partnership with communities to prevent and reduce crime, enhance highway safety, and protect the rights and property of residents.
Cadet Class 106 is on the calendar to begin training Aug. 10. Individuals interested in joining the Kentucky State Police can visit kentuckystatepolice.ky.gov/recruitment for more information.