Idaho State Police host Hiring Open House at District 5 Facilities

POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI) – Idaho State Police offered a two-hour opportunity for locals interested in working in law enforcement by giving them a tour of the District 5 office as well as providing state troopers to answer questions. The session covered the application process, the intensive training program and what to expect in the profession if a candidate is hired.

Officers said the hiring open houses are conducive for interested people to ask direct questions to troopers about their careers and see if it could be the right fit for them.

"One of the biggest problems we run into is some people who have thought about a career in law enforcement just don't know how to start or what to expect or anything else," said Todd Orr, Patrol Lieutenant with Idaho State Police. "We say, here's how it works and what to expect, here's what the next year of your life could be."

Lt. Orr said the next training academy begins in January, with the application cycle already open. The academy consists of several months at the beginning of the year spent in Boise for intense training in crashes, drug busts and more.

The department began hosting open houses about five years ago to provide an environment with open communication to educate the public about what it takes to become an officer. The District 5 open houses are regional, with some attendees traveling from as far as Utah and Twin Falls.

"It's so they can know the expectations of not only the training, but of being a trooper," Lt. Orr said.

Lt. Orr said there is no perfect candidate for an officer, as they've had successful professionals come from all walks of life. It doesn't require a specific body type, but officers said candidates need a strong sense of integrity.

"Some people don't think they're capable of it, but we have so many troopers that have come from so many different backgrounds," he said. "People are capable of doing it. They're in their own way. I encourage them to come in and actually take a look, call one of our recruiters and they can talk you through stuff."

The easiest way to reach ISP is by visiting their website at isp.idaho.gov for more information about online applications to the training academy.