FHP welcomes 52 new troopers to field operations

Feb 7, 2013 3 min read

TALLAHASSEE Fifty-two new troopers are ready to get to work. The 123rd Basic Recruit Class

graduated from the Florida Highway Patrol Academy this morning at the Tallahassee Automobile Museum.

Family and friends gathered to celebrate the accomplishment that marks the completion of a demanding 30-

week training program that prepares recruits for a career as a Florida State Trooper.

“It is an honor to welcome our newest recruit class to the ranks of trooper,” said Col. David Brierton, director of

the Florida Highway Patrol. “We are proud of our history, and we are pleased to have new troopers to carry on

FHP’s commitment toward a safer Florida.”

The graduates and guests welcomed long-time supporter of the FHP, Rep. Marti Coley, who delivered the

keynote address during the graduation ceremony.

“The FHP has been extremely important to my family and me over the years with my late husband, David

Coley’s involvement as a high ranking member of the FHP Auxiliary along with his late brother Scott Coley’s

long service as a member of the Florida Highway Patrol,” said Coley. “We are grateful for the service and

sacrifice given on a daily basis from our state law enforcement officers and wish these new officers much

success and safety as they work to keep our state safe.”

During the commencement ceremony, FHP honored Recruit Albert Chu with the Executive Director’s award

for achieving the highest grade point average at the academy. The Patrol presented the Director’s award to

Recruit Derek Daniels for demonstrating extraordinary courtesy and dedication during the training.

During their time at the academy, the recruits volunteered at events to raise money for the Ronald McDonald

House. They visited Pyramid, Inc., an organization that provides workforce and lifestyle programs for

developmentally disabled adults and with whom the academy has developed a special relationship. The recruits

also participated in two blood drives for the Southeastern Community Blood Center, all while learning how to

be the kind of public servant Florida needs and deserves.

Florida’s newest state troopers from the 123rd class will report for duty by Feb.15. A complete listing of the

names and duty assignment locations for members of the 123rd Basic Recruit Class is included on pages 2-3.

For additional information about employment with FHP, please visit our website at www.BeATrooper.com or

contact our Recruitment Office at 850-617-2307.

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles provides highway safety and security through

excellence in service, education and enforcement. The Department is leading the way to a safer Florida through

the efficient and professional execution of its core mission: the issuance of driver licenses, vehicle tags and

titles and operation of the Florida Highway Patrol. To learn more about DHSMV and the services offered, visit

www.flhsmv.gov, follow us on Twitter @FDHSMV or find us on Facebook.