The reasons I’m leaving the Highway Patrol…
I have worked for the Wyoming Highway Patrol for the past 18 years and have had a very prodigious career here. The opportunities I’ve had, places I’ve been, people I’ve met and friendships I’ve made are truly remarkable and a blessing.
After struggling with the decision to move on for many weeks, I am resigning. The reasons are many, but the most significant ones are as follows:
The Highway Patrol has never staffed appropriately in many parts of Wyoming. We have been a constant revolving door prior to me starting my career here. Every shift is usually worked alone, and call outs are frequent. At the current time, being on call and responsible for hundreds of miles of highway in two counties is paid at $1.00 per hour. The cost of living is atrocious, and Troopers cannot support a family in this area.
It is felt statewide that Highway Patrol leadership in Cheyenne does not solicit or value input and ideas from Troopers.
Last year the Troop boundaries were changed and having Troopers drive 80+ miles while responding to emergency calls puts an added stress on an already stressful job. I feel that we cannot serve the public or fellow law enforcement agencies effectively or efficiently with such long response times.
As of late, being paid overtime has come to a complete halt. Troopers are required to go home after their 40 hours are reached and remain on call due to staffing shortages which often leads to no Troopers covering vast areas of Wyoming. Law Enforcement Officers all over America realize overtime is a critical component of their duties, not just an additional luxury. As the cost of living continues to rise, the State of Wyoming as an employer has not kept up with this and state employees are suffering and leaving in large numbers for higher pay along with better working conditions.
Many other agencies realize the true value of their employees and understand they have to pay a top salary to retain and recruit high quality employees. I love the Highway Patrol with all my heart and always will. At this time, it is not conducive to supporting a family or having the high standard of living Wyoming is known for.
In the future it is my sincerest hope WYDOT and the Highway Patrol will realize the issues and come up with solutions that would make it one of the best jobs in the state.
The Highway Patrol used to be the most prestigious and premier law enforcement agency in the state. Sadly, this is no longer the case. It has been said the Wyoming Highway Patrol could be so great that someone would have to die or retire before a Trooper position became vacant. I believe this is possible but only if WYDOT learns to value their employees and the jobs they do.
Sincerely,
A WHP Trooper