CENTRAL FLORIDA,None — There are 267 new state troopers on the road on Wednesday because a merger boosted the Florida Highway Patrol's numbers. However, drivers might not recognize the new troopers on the roads.
A swearing-in ceremony at the FHP headquarters marked the start of a new chapter for 267 new troopers statewide.
"It was a little intimidating," said Capt. Melinda Van Doren, who is now with FHP.
Van Doren spent the past 18 years working for the state's Office of Motor Carrier Compliance, enforcing laws on commercial vehicles. The office has now merged with FHP, in a move that will save the state $1.3 million.
The merger became official on Wednesday.
"I think it will create more visibility on the roadways, which is a deterrent for people when they're speeding, drunk driving, not using their seat belts," said Col. David Brierton, FHP's director.
Commercial vehicles will still be the priority for the new troopers, but average drivers need to know they're out there. The new FHP cars look very different, but inside there will be a trooper who can pull people over and ticket them.
This change is news to most people.
"We don't slow down for those cause we don't recognize they're Florida Highway Patrol people," said driver Patricia Hines
Over the next few years, there cars will be replaced with traditional FHP cars, but until then people will be seeing a different car.
"If its got blue lights on it, if its a patrol car. Treat them like a police officer because they are,"said Van Doren.
The new troopers also specialize in inspecting commercial vehicles for hazardous materials, and since Sept. 11, 2001, they have played a big part in homeland security.
WFTV
