Virginia is facing more than 300 vacancies in its State Police, and Governor Glenn Youngkin announced a new partnership with Liberty University to help fill the gap. The program will allow Criminal Justice students in their final semester at Liberty to attend the Virginia State Police (VSP) basic trooper academy. This pathway enables students to graduate with both their degree and law enforcement certification, fast-tracking them into service.<\/p>\n
Colonel Matthew Hanley, VSP Superintendent, highlighted the benefit of combining academy credits with academic credits, calling it a “fantastic partnership.” Youngkin said the initiative will not only address the shortage but also improve public safety, creating a cycle where more troopers lead to lower crime and greater community trust.<\/p>\n
The governor also noted that the upcoming VSP graduating class will be the second largest in its history, and at least one student is already enrolled in the new program.<\/p>\n