SALEM, Va. (AP) -- The Virginia State Police want more women to pursue law enforcement careers.

The agency plans to hold a recruitment fair Saturday morning at its Salem division headquarters. State troopers, special agents and supervisors will be on hand at the event, which is aimed at drawing female candidates.

Women accounted for about 5 percent of the agency's 1,822 sworn employees in 2011. Fourteen women are among new trooper-trainees starting this week.

1st Sgt. Paul Branch Jr. said in a news release that the State Police want to reflect the society they serve, so the agency is looking to increase its ranks of women and minorities.

Starting salary for new hires is $36,207.

------

Online:

http://www.vsp.state.va.us/Employment--Trooper--Recruitment--Ad.shtm

AP-WF-02-24-12 0907GMT