The Iowa State Patrol is experiencing a shortage in troopers and is looking to hire. Over 20 years ago, there were over 400 state tropers in Iowa and at least one trooper in each of Iowa’s 99 counties. That number has now dropped to 361 troopers statewide, which is far below the number they would prefer. The Iowa State Patrol experienced budget cuts in the early 2000s, due to this, they were unable to fill positions that opened up as troopers retired or left the agency. District 4 Public Resource Officer and State Trooper, Shelby McCreedy, says they have space open in an upcoming academy for individuals interested in becoming a trooper.
McCreedy adds you do not need previous law enforcement experience to apply.
The Iowa State Patrol is hiring for two types of troopers. Trooper Ones are assigned to the Capitol Complex in Des Moines, and applicants must be 18 years of age or older. Trooper Twos are on field assignments in throughout the state and must be 22 years of age or older. McCreedy says there is one question they hear frequently from those interested in joining the Iowa State Patrol.
The Iowa State Patrol’s academies are longer than the traditional ones but they cover each topic extensively.
The application period is open until February 27. Visit dps.iowa.gov to apply, a link to which is included with this story on our website.
