SACRAMENTO, Calif. –  The California Highway Patrol’s (CHP) 142 newest officers graduated from the CHP Academy today, and following the swearing-in ceremony, received their badges following 27 weeks of training.

With family and friends looking on, each cadet was promoted to the rank of officer and took their first steps as California’s newest defenders of the law.

“I have pride knowing that these women and men will be deploying throughout our great state to serve the people of California,” CHP Commissioner Amanda Ray said.  “These new officers answered the call and are embarking on a time-honored tradition of service.”

At the CHP Academy, cadet training starts with nobility in policing, leadership, professionalism and ethics, and cultural diversity.  Cadets also receive instruction on mental illness response and crisis intervention techniques.  The training also covers vehicle patrol, accident investigation, first aid, and the apprehension of suspected violators, including those who drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

The cadets also receive training in traffic control, report writing, recovery of stolen vehicles, assisting the motoring public, issuing citations, emergency scene management, and knowledge of various codes including the California Vehicle Code, Penal Code, and Health and Safety Code.

Upon graduation, this class of officers will be reporting for duty to one of the 103 CHP Area offices throughout the state.

For more information about becoming a CHP officer, or to apply, visit the CHP’s Web site.