Kentucky State Police Post 16 Troopers Recognized at Annual Awards Ceremony 

LEXINGTON, Ky. (July 24, 2026) – The Kentucky State Police (KSP) honored 84 troopers, detectives and officers who went above and beyond the call of service in 2025. The KSP annual Sworn Awards Ceremony highlighted those who are dedicated to protecting Kentucky’s 120 counties with a mission of creating a safer commonwealth for future generations.

In 2025, KSP responded to 532,600 calls for assistance, conducted thousands of wellness checks during dangerous weather conditions, protected children from online predators, secured justice for victims, and assisted local law enforcement agencies as needed to promote safety throughout the commonwealth.

Recipients from the Post 16 area include:

• Detective Dalton Mellott was named the 2025 Post 16 Detective of the Year. Detective Mellott is a 9-year veteran of the agency.
• Trooper Michael Wathen was named the 2025 Post 16 Trooper of the Year. Trooper Wathen is a 16-year veteran of the agency.

A complete list of award recipients is available on the KSP website.

KSP is looking to recruit the next generation of law enforcement leaders. Individuals interested in a career of service, leadership and honor are encouraged to apply today at JoinKSP.com.

For more information about KSP’s commitment to creating a better Kentucky by making the commonwealth’s streets safer, communities stronger and the nation more secure by providing exceptional law enforcement, click here.

Editor’s Note: photo identification (left to right) Detective Dalton Mellott and Trooper Michael Wathen

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