In order to provide additional police protection in the Capitol Complex, the Pennsylvania Capitol Police have announced the start of a statewide recruiting effort to add approximately 20 officers to its force by 2009.

"We strongly encourage aspiring police candidates to consider a career with the Pennsylvania Capitol Police," said Superintendent Richard S. Shaffer. "You will find that we have much to offer in terms of a challenging and rewarding career."

Applicants must be at least 21 years of age, have a valid Pennsylvania driver's license, and be a resident of Pennsylvania. To be eligible, applicants should have successfully completed the Municipal Police Officers' Education and Training Commission Certified Basic Police Academy (Act 120) training. Additionally, applicants should have successfully passed the Municipal Police Officers' Education and Training Commission exam by time of hire.

Shaffer said the opportunity also exists for retired police officers who are looking to supplement their incomes.

"The Capitol Police also encourages veteran law enforcement officers to consider a 'second career' with us," Shaffer said. "The current labor agreement offers medical benefits and the possibility of developing a second pension."

The starting salary for a Capitol Police Officer Patrolman is $34,488.

The 110-member Capitol Police force, part of the Pennsylvania Department of General Services, was established in 1895 and is second only to the Texas Rangers as the oldest police organization in the United States. It is a multi-faceted law enforcement agency that maintains security at the Capitol Complex and at the state office buildings in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Scranton. The department has full arrest powers within its jurisdiction and is charged with investigating all crimes committed on state property.

Its duties include foot, bicycle and vehicle patrol, K-9 patrol, entry control, security screening and protection services, security posts, security building assessments, traffic and parking enforcement. The Capitol Police are also responsible for keeping the public peace during rallies, demonstrations, and other events that take place on state property.

The Capitol Police received international accreditation last year from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA), making it only the third Capitol Police Department in the nation to achieve this recognition. The Connecticut Capitol Police and the U.S. Capitol Police are also accredited by CALEA.

For more information, contact Special Investigator Robert Rapak or Administrative Lieutenant Patrick Dougher of the Capitol Police at (717) 787-9013. Interested applicants may visit the Department of General Services Website at www.dgs.state.pa.us or the State Civil Service Commission Website at www.scsc.state.pa.us .