New Va. state troopers to graduate

Forty-two new troopers are joining the Virginia State Police's ranks.

The 115th Trooper Basic Section will graduate Friday after completing 36 weeks of training at the Virginia State Police Academy. Three commercial enforcement officers and one special agent accountant also will graduate.

The training was delayed four times because of the economy and state budget cuts. State police Superintendent Col. W. Steven Flaherty says this class epitomizes perseverance.

The new troopers will report to their duty assignments on Monday. They'll spend a minimum of six weeks with field training officers learning their patrol areas.

-- The Associated Press