The Michigan State Police began as a temporary, wartime emergency force for the purpose of domestic security during World War I. On April 19, 1917, Gov. Albert Sleeper created the Michigan State Troops Permanent Force (also known as the Michigan State Constabulary). With Colonel Roy C. Vandercook as the first commanding officer, this new force consisted of five Troops of mounted, dismounted, and motorized units, totaling 300 men. Today, the Michigan State Police is a modern-day force of law enforcement professionals who use high tech equipment and state-of-the-art technology to provide 24-hour statewide police service. Along with our counterparts at the local, county, and federal levels of government, we are working diligently to prevent crime, apprehend fugitives, improve traffic safety, ensure homeland security, provide quality support services, and to maintain basic police services for our local communities.