The New York State Police Academy graduated 181 new state troopers in Buffalo, N.Y., on Thursday.
Among the graduates was Matthew Weinholtz, a 31-year-old from Orchard Park, who was chosen as the student representative and received a firearm award from the Police Benevolent Association.
Weinholtz holds a bachelor’s degree in intelligence studies from Mercyhurst University and previously served as a trooper with the Virginia State Police.
He is now assigned to Troop A, based in Batavia.
Governor Kathy Hochul attended the ceremony, praising the troopers for their dedication and perseverance.
She highlighted the rigorous training the graduates completed and acknowledged the vital role they play in protecting New York’s citizens. With this graduation, the New York State Police now has 5,183 sworn members.
Hochul commended the graduates, saying, The New York State Police put their lives on the line each day to keep us safe, serving as a critical lifeline for all New Yorkers.