ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — 9 Investigates uncovered thousands of potential state troopers have been disqualified after they failed a lie detector test.
It comes as the Florida Highway Patrol battles a chronic trooper shortage.
According to FHP records dating back to 2010, more than 4,300 people took a lie detector test to become a trooper.
Records show 56 percent failed.
“That’s a lot. That really concerns me because this is our law enforcement,” said Orlando resident Robin Brettin.
FHP acknowledged it has been frustrating to have so many applicants disqualified due to a failed polygraph, but a spokesperson said it proved the process works because it screesn out people who don’t have the qualities of a state trooper.
“There’s nothing more dangerous than a liar with a badge and a gun,” said WFTV legal analyst Bill Sheaffer.
FHP is sending 21 new troopers to Orlando next month to help reduce manpower shortages.
WFTV
