New Jersey State Police Adds 134 New Troopers

MIDDLETOWN, N.J. (AP) -- The ranks of the New Jersey State Police have grown by 134.

Members of the 156th training class received their badges during a graduation ceremony in Middletown on Friday.

State Police say 40 percent have military experience and 32 percent have worked in law enforcement. More than 33 percent are minorities.

The graduates completed 24 weeks of physical and academic training that included detailed instructions about cultural diversity.

The probationary troopers will be assigned around the state and work under the watchful eyes of coaches and supervisors.