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PIERRE, S.D. (AP) The South Dakota Highway Patrol has begun the annual process of taking applications for next year's recruits.

Patrol Superintendent Col. Dan Mosteller (MAHS'-stel-ur) says a 25-week training academy will start in January at the Mickelson Law Enforcement Training Center in Pierre.

The Highway Patrol application process runs through Aug. 15.

The agency is authorized to have 162 troopers, and Mosteller says it's about 10 short right now.

Information from: Tony Mangan, KCCR-AM, http://www.todayskccr.com/ (Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 07-23-08 0843CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list