State Patrol turns out grads of new program

A new recruitment program for the Minnesota State Patrol has graduated its first class.

The program is called LETO, for law-enforcement training opportunity. The program encourages applications from people whose backgrounds are in something other than law enforcement. The move is aimed at increasing State Patrol diversity.

Of the 72 troopers who graduated Friday, 31 didn't have law-enforcement backgrounds. They included a banker, teacher and financial planner.

The chief of the State Patrol is Col. Mark Dunaski. He says law enforcement is evolving every day, and the new troopers will help provide a fresh perspective on emerging challenges.

The new troopers will work with veterans for a 1-year probationary period before they can patrol on their own.

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Information from: KSTP-TV, http://www.kstp.com

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