California – The California Highway Patrol (CHP) celebrated the addition of 105 new law enforcement officers to its ranks, a significant step toward achieving the goal set by the current administration to recruit 1,000 new CHP officers. The fresh graduates will be stationed across the state, reinforcing the mission to ensure the safety and security of the California community.
A Milestone in Public Safety
Governor Gavin Newsom and CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee extended their congratulations to the new officers during a graduation ceremony held at the West Sacramento CHP Academy. The ceremony marked the culmination of an arduous 26-week training program, preparing the officers for their upcoming roles in serving and protecting the citizens of California.
Governor Newsom expressed his pride in the new officers, highlighting their commitment to fostering trust and safety within communities across the state. “All Californians should be proud of these new officers as they enter a fulfilling career to keep California, and our families, safe. Building trust and safety across communities, they represent the best of the Golden State,” said Governor Newsom.
Commissioner Duryee commended the officers for their perseverance and dedication throughout their training at the Academy. “Success in training and on the job is only achieved by the most dedicated of individuals. We look forward to working alongside them as we uphold the law and safeguard California’s communities,” he stated.
The CHP stands as the United States’ largest state law enforcement agency, with over 6,500 sworn officers. In response to the growing demand for law enforcement personnel and as part of a broader initiative to enhance public safety, the CHP embarked on an ambitious recruitment campaign. This initiative is part of California’s $1.1 billion investment since 2019 to combat crime, support local governments in hiring more police officers, and generally improve public safety measures across the state.
In addition to bolstering the CHP’s ranks, Governor Newsom has advocated for new legislation aimed at expanding criminal penalties and enhancing the tools available to police and prosecutors to address theft, professional crime rings, and car burglaries. The year 2023 also saw the announcement of California’s Real Public Safety Plan, which includes significant funding to combat organized retail crime, representing the state’s largest-ever investment in tackling this issue. With these measures, California continues to take decisive steps toward a safer, more secure future for all its residents.