Illinois State Police (ISP) Interim Director Patrick Keen today announced the graduation of Cadet Class 118. The 40 new officers will report to their districts of assignment on Monday to begin a 14-week Field Training Program (FTP). "These men and women dedicated themselves to successfully completing 25 weeks of rigorous training to become Illinois State Police officers,” stated Interim Director Keen. “We welcome them to our ranks and salute their commitment to serving the citizens of Illinois.” Members of Cadet Class 118 began their training on September 26, 2010, and underwent a regimen of physical and classroom instruction, including Terrorism Awareness, Domestic Violence, Critical Incident Response, Firearms Training, First Responder Certification, Illinois Vehicle Code, Criminal Law, Motor Carrier Safety, Emergency Pursuit Driving, Juvenile Law, Police Response to Mental Illness, and more. The new Troopers have been assigned to the following areas of the state and will immediately begin their patrol duties, joining veteran Troopers in the effort to safeguard our state:

• District Chicago – 22 officers
• District 15, Downers Grove – 8 officers
• District 16, Pecatonica – 3 officers
• District 20 Pittsfield – 3 officers
• District 21, Ashkum – 3 officers
• District 1, Sterling – 1 officer

For more information regarding the Illinois State Police please visit the ISP web site at www.isp.state.il.us . Individuals interested in joining the ranks of the Illinois State Police should visit the ISP Merit Board web site at www.illinoistrooper.com for information on becoming a sworn officer.