x
Breaking News
More () »

State Police Academy Graduates Small Class After Scandal Allegations

LOWER PAXTON TOWNSHIP — Accusations of misbehavior among cadets going through the state police academy resulted in a smaller-than-usual class graduating o...

LOWER PAXTON TOWNSHIP -- Accusations of misbehavior among cadets going through the state police academy resulted in a smaller-than-usual class graduating on Friday.

Around three dozen cadets were dismissed or left on their own due to cheating allegations.

By most accounts, Pennsylvania has the oldest state police department in the country and its members refer to the agency as "the first and finest." This graduating class could also be called "the fewest."

Members of the latest cadet class took the stage at a high school auditorium near Harrisburg to receive their badges. They also received respect and pride from friends and parents.

"I'm proud. He's proud. And we pray that he is safe," said Debbie Kitchick of Penns Creek.

"He worked very hard at what he accomplished, and it's very touching for us because we raised a good kid," said Mark Plitnick of Sugarloaf.

Only 48 cadets graduated. The last three classes averaged 100.

State police sources say 36 from this class were dismissed or left the academy for allegedly cheating on written tests.

"Those matters are being thoroughly investigated," said PSP Commissioner Col. Tyree Blocker.

Col. Blocker admits this small class is graduating as demand for more troopers grows. Hundreds are expected to retire in the next five years.

And as smaller communities dissolve local police departments, they rely on the state police to fill the void.

"We have enough personnel to carry out our primary missions and duties in the commonwealth," Blocker said.

Blocker says his agency will step up recruiting. He also continued to focus on the 48 graduates, like Brian Smyer of Snyder County, who trained with integrity, while some classmates allegedly cheated.

Brian's mother says it was a tough month.

"I said, 'Brian, something's bothering you, we need to talk.' He said, 'Mom, I cannot tell you what I am going through.'"

The state police's commissioner has also called for an outside investigation of the academy, to see if the cheating scandal extends to other troopers or instructors at the facility.

Before You Leave, Check This Out