State police clock 113 applications per hour

SALEM, Ore. - Oregon State Police received over 680 applications in 6 hours on Tuesday, forcing them to stop accepting applications for new recruits.

This was the first time Oregon State Police had used the E-Recruit electronic application system.

The job posting went live at 8 a.m. By 2 p.m., OSP took the job off-line after receiving 680 applications. With 161 applications carried over from March 2010, OSP has 841 candidates for any open positions.

"We expected a high level of interest," said Oregon State Police Superintendent Chris Brown, "but were surprised how quickly we reached our goal. Because it happened so quickly we had to stop six hours later to ensure we had a manageable pool of candidates."

During upcoming physical abilities testing, applicants are required to meet specific standards for performing push-ups and sit-ups in two minutes, and will be required to run two miles under an allotted time. 

Brown said being a trooper involves more than passing a physical abilities test.

"We want men and women with the highest level of commitment and integrity to face the challenges that come with a career in law enforcement," said Brown.  "Being an Oregon State Trooper is a challenging career, but one that brings a sense of pride and personal satisfaction because you helped make Oregon a safer place to live and visit."