This is the first class in the State Police Trooper Series. Positions in this class perform law enforcement, crime prevention, highway patrol, traffic control, and accident prevention duties for the citizens of the Commonwealth of Virginia. When positions are first allocated to this class, incumbents are required to perform field training activities and attend the Basic Training School at the State Police Academy. Upon successful completion of the training activities, positions in this class perform a variety of police duties in order to protect the citizens, visitors, public highways and property of the Commonwealth. Positions in this class exercise full police powers as authorized by the Code of Virginia n all jurisdictions. and carry weapons. This class is distinguished from the State Police Trooper II class by its responsibility for learning, training and strengthening the knowledge, skills and abilities associated with State Police responsibilities.

Complexity of Work: During the training phase, positions in this class perform work of routine difficulty which includes attending the Basic Training School at the State Police Academy and obtaining training in the principles and practices of the Code of Virginia, laws of arrest, patrol duty, motor vehicle accident investigation, criminal investigation, government, history and geography of Virginia, proper methods of making reports, identification, scientific aids to police work, first aid, the art of self-defense, care and use of firearms and other carried weapons, care and use of motor vehicle equipment, methods of handling crowds and riots, human relations, and regulations governing the Department of State Police. Upon successful completion of the Basic Training School, positions engage in patrolling interstate highways to enforce laws relating to the operation of motor vehicles; controlling traffic to prevent accidents; conducting accident investigations; detecting, investigating and apprehending persons for law violations; enforcing criminal laws: arresting suspects and executing warrants of arrest; writing reports and taking acknowledgements and affidavits; communicating with the public on various law enforcement issues; providing directions; testifying in court and administrative hearings; and providing escorts for citizens and dignitaries.

Supervision Given: Supervision is typically not a factor.

Supervision Received: Upon successful completion of the Basic Training School at the State Police Academy, positions receive general supervision from a State Police Sergeant.

Scope: Upon the successful completion of training, positions in this class perform work which affects and facilitates the safety and security of the citizens, visitors, interstate highways, and property of and within the Commonwealth. There are no jurisdictional boundaries; therefore, actions may affect all areas of the Commonwealth at one time or another

Impact of Actions: Upon successful completion of training, actions affect the compliance with laws of the Commonwealth and the protection of the public and of state property. Ineffective decisions and actions, and failure to enforce laws of the Commonwealth could adversely impact the agency in terms of time, money, services and public/employee goodwill and could negatively affect the welfare of the Commonwealth and its citizens.

Personal Contacts: Frequent internal and external contacts with the public, law enforcement agencies both internal and external to the Commonwealth, other state agencies, and court system/government officials in order to enforce laws and regulations, and to provide information and assistance.

Knowledge: Some knowledge of criminal and traffic laws and their application; of department rules and regulations; of investigative techniques and procedures; of laws of arrest; and of the rules of evidence.

Skills: Working skill in the use of firearms and other carried weapons; and in the operation of specially equipped motor vehicles.

Abilities: Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate both orally and in writing; to interpret and follow oral and written instructions, rules and regulations; to apply and interpret laws; to perform investigations; and to meet the physical demands of the job responsibilities.

OUALIFICATIONS GUIDE*

Licenses or Certification: Certification by the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services; and a valid Virginia driver's license.

Education and Training: Graduation from high school or equivalent and completion of the Basic Training School at the State Police Academy.

Level and Type of Experience: None required for entrance to this class.

An equivalent combination of training and experience indicating possession of the preceding knowledge and abilities may substitute for this education and experience.

This class was established in accordance with legislation enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia through the House Appropriations Act of 1987, and was redefined as a result of the statewide Classification Review/Specification Update Program in May 1989.

Last updated: 5/16/89