Georgia State Patrol looking to fill over 100 positions

STATESBORO, GA (WTOC) - Georgia State Patrol is trying to fill around 150 trooper positions. The Georgia Department of Safety has experienced a shortage of troopers for quite some time.

"Right now, we are currently in the neighborhood of 150 troopers short. We have trooper schools that are ongoing, so we are constantly trying to fill those positions," said Captain Billy Hitchens, Troop F Commander.

Hitchens said their recruiting unit and Governor Deal's 20 percent pay increase to state troopers and law enforcement has helped the shortage of troopers but has not resolved the problem.

"Unfortunately for us, we are still going through a time where we are losing people for normal retirements, you know, people leaving the profession," Hitchens said. "So, we have actually gained some people, but our actual numbers have not gone up as much as we would like."

Even though they are short on troopers, Hitchens says they still provide the same service on the highway enforcing traffic laws and assisting other agencies.

People wanting to apply do not have to have previous experience or a degree. Applicants must fill out an application, pass a background test, a polygraph test and physical training test to land an interview.

"One of the things we do tell folks is probably a misconception is, you know, it's not a degree requirement or prior law enforcement experience is not needed. You can come straight with us and we will teach you, you know, the things you need to know to do the job," Hitchens said.

For more information, click here or contact the recruiting unit at 404.624.7647, or recruiting@gsp.net.

Copyright 2018 WTOC. All rights reserved.