Illinois State Police Graduates the Largest Cadet Class in 25 Years

This year, the Illinois State Police had more graduates than it has in the last 25 years. It is a true accomplishment and state Police Director Brendan F. Kelly commended the graduates noting the success of this year's class.

For Illinois residents seeking to apply: The State Police will consider qualified adults for cadet training and sworn standing. Qualified new applicants may be chosen to initiate 29 weeks of traditional cadet training. In addition, persons who have already won standing as certified police officers with prior experience may choose to apply for entry to an accelerated 12-week State Police entry program, open only to persons with prior police experience. In both cases, after undergoing State Police academy cadet training, future ISP troopers are then invited to participate in a final 14-week field training program, for hands-on experience-based learning. After completion of the field training program, the 95 members of the summer 2025 Illinois State Police cadet graduate class were sworn in as State Police troopers.

Illinois House Minority Leader Tony McCombie congratulated the newest cadet class while acknowledging there is still much lawmakers must address to continue to improve public safety:

"House Republicans believe safe communities start with strong support for law enforcement," said McCombie. "The graduation of the largest Illinois State Police cadet class in 25 years is a need and an investment in those who protect and serve. We'll keep fighting for the resources and respect law enforcement need-because public safety isn't optional, it's foundational."