Harrisburg, PA – Today, the Shapiro Administration is recognizing the 130th Anniversary of the Pennsylvania Capitol Police Department (CPD) – the nation’s second-oldest state law enforcement agency and pointing to recent investments that underscore the Governor’s commitment to safer communities throughout the Commonwealth.
CPD is an internationally and domestically accredited law enforcement agency with full arrest powers that investigates all reported crimes within its jurisdiction of state-owned buildings and properties in the Harrisburg area and Scranton. The force maintains an around-the-clock presence in Harrisburg, where they provide security in the Capitol Complex and partner with neighboring law enforcement agencies to assist.
Under the Shapiro Administration, CPD has been able to roll out the use of body cameras, modernize its vehicle fleet and complete needed security upgrades to all its entry-point baggage/parcel scanners. In addition, CPD has recently expanded their drone unit, procured modern optics for firearms that enhance officers’ response capabilities, and they continue to invest in recruitment and outreach efforts aimed at attracting new officers to the force.
“We’ve come a long way since our humble beginnings, but what has remained consistent is our rich history of tradition, our professionalism, and our shared sense of pride in all that we have accomplished over the past 130 years,” said Pennsylvania Capitol Police Superintendent Joe Jacob. “CPD truly is a world class police force—with the technology, expertise, and capabilities that enable us to respond to an ever-evolving threat landscape.”
CPD was officially established as a six-officer force by Act 12 on March 26, 1895. This action authorized them as the first Pennsylvania law enforcement agency under the jurisdiction of the Commonwealth. They were placed under the oversight of the Board of Public Grounds and Buildings, which later became the Department of General Services.
“Each and every day, countless visitors, schoolchildren, and lawmakers bear witness to the courage, professionalism, and dedication displayed by the Pennsylvania Capitol Police,” said Department of General Services Secretary Reggie McNeil. “Under the Shapiro Administration, CPD has been able to use their expertise and resources to support the surrounding community. These education and outreach events enable both Commonwealth staff and members of the public to be better stewards of safety in their own lives.”
Governor Shapiro’s 2025-26 proposed budget provides increased funding for programs to make communities safer including a $10 million increase for the successful Violence Intervention and Prevention Program that supports a wide range of models focused on reducing community violence and relies on community groups that are most in tune with specific local needs; and a $10 million increase in the Building Opportunity through Out of School Time (BOOST) Grant Program that provides funding for after-school programs giving enrichment opportunities to our kids, addressing the root causes of violence, and making our communities safer.
To learn more about the Pennsylvania Capitol Police, including information on becoming a Capitol Police officer, visit the Capitol Police Website.