The new Massachusetts state troopers received their badges and took the oath of office at a ceremony held at the MassMutual Center in Springfield. Governor Maura Healey swore in 75 cadets, who had undergone rigorous physical and academic training. In her speech, Healey thanked the troopers for their dedication and reminded them of the challenges they will face in their line of duty.
State Police Colonel John E. Mawn Jr. emphasized the importance of compassion in modern-day policing, urging the new troopers to remember that their primary goal is to help people. He also addressed recent controversies surrounding the Massachusetts State Police, including overtime fraud and ticket tampering, cautioning the troopers to always act with integrity and uphold the highest standards of professionalism.
The new troopers completed six months of intensive training in various areas, including criminal and firearms law, sexual assault investigation, and de-escalation techniques. Among the graduates, there is a diverse representation with one-third being persons of color and seven being female.
Despite the challenges and controversies faced by the Massachusetts State Police, the new troopers are ready to embark on their journey as law enforcement professionals. As they begin their careers, they will be held to a higher standard by society, but with the training and dedication they have shown, they are well-equipped to uphold the values of integrity and compassion in their duties.
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