The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) proudly announces the graduation of 21 Trooper Trainees from Class 2024-B. This milestone event, held at ALEA’s Training Center (ATC) in Selma, signifies their successful completion of rigorous training and preparation to serve the citizens of Alabama.
Twenty of the graduates will join ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division, enhancing statewide law enforcement efforts and ensuring the safety of Alabama's roadways. One graduate will bring their skills to the Agency’s Marine Patrol Division, focusing on maintaining safety and order on Alabama's waterways.
“ALEA is committed to protecting and serving the communities of our great state,” said ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor. “These new Troopers represent the future of our Agency, and we are confident they will uphold our values of integrity, loyalty and respect as they begin their careers.”
The graduation ceremony was attended by families, friends, and distinguished guests, all coming together to celebrate the dedication and hard work of these individuals. Speaker of the Alabama House of Representatives Nathaniel Ledbetter addressed the class as the commencement speaker stating it takes strength, character and passion to serve as a law enforcement officer. He also touched on the importance of family stating their loved ones have helped place them in the position they are in today.
“Look at the person next to you and the individuals out in this audience, because these are the faces of Alabama that you will protect and serve,” said Speaker Ledbetter during the ceremony.
He continued to express his unwavering support of law enforcement and commended the leadership of Secretary Hal Taylor, noting his tireless advocacy and perseverance for sworn employees. Speaker Ledbetter also highlighted the fact that this graduating class would begin their career as the highest paid Trooper class that the State of Alabama has ever had. Currently, the starting pay for a Trooper Trainee is $56,726.40. Previously, the salary for a Trooper Trainee began at $39,664.80.
“As long as I am Speaker of the House, then I, and the House of Representatives will proudly back the blue,” he continued.
Following the Speaker’s remarks, Secretary Taylor welcomed the class to the ALEA family and presented each member with their certificate of completion. The following class members received special awards:
Academic Award – Louis Bishop
Driving Award – Austin Arnold
Firearms Award – John Barton
Most Improved PT Award – Riley Cagle
Overall PT Award – Caleb Toney
Commander’s Award – Payton Greenwood
All 21 Trooper Trainees were certified with the Alabama Peace Officers Standards and Training Commission (APOSTC) and had prior law enforcement experience.
The rigorous training program they received at the ATC includes extensive coursework in crash investigations, radar, field sobriety, pursuit driver training, use-of-force, defense tactics, patrol/traffic stops, first aid and operation of an AED, as well coursework on Title 32 Code of Alabama and legal updates. The new Troopers are prepared to face the challenges of their roles and are equipped with the necessary tools to make a positive impact.
