Kentucky State Police Honors Troopers and Officers at Annual Awards Ceremony

2023 trooper, detective, officer of the year announced

FRANKFORT, Ky. (September 22, 2024) – The Kentucky State Police (KSP) honored 55 troopers and officers who are dedicated to protecting Kentucky’s 120 counties with a mission of creating a safer commonwealth for future generations. The awards presented were for heroic acts of service that occurred in 2023. KSP has more than 1,000 sworn personnel wearing the badge of honor, which is the highest number of troopers the agency has employed since 2017.

In 2023, KSP responded to 407,493 requests for assistance, conducted thousands of wellness checks during dangerous weather conditions, continued the fight against the deadly drug epidemic, obtained justice for victims, ran into unthinkable dangers, assisted local law enforcement agencies as needed and enhanced public and officer safety throughout the commonwealth.

During the ceremony, KSP Commissioner Phillip Burnett Jr. commended the agency’s troopers and officers for going above and beyond.

“We recognize the dedication, bravery and extraordinary efforts of our troopers and officers,” said KSP Commissioner Phillip Burnett, Jr. “Whether it was a heroic act in the face of danger, an exceptional investigation that led to justice or a moment of compassion that made a lasting impact, each of you have demonstrated what it means to serve with honor.”

Those honors included one sergeant, five troopers, two detectives and one officer from the Post 12 area.

• Detective Andrew Lee was named the Post 12 Detective of the Year. He is a 7-year veteran of the agency.
• Trooper Robert Stepp was named the Post 12 Trooper of the Year. He is a 2-year veteran of the agency.
• Trooper Ronald Gilbert was named the Academy Branch Trooper of the Year. He is a 14-year veteran of the agency.
• Trooper Chad Barnes received the Meritorious Service award. He is a 5-year veteran of the agency.
• Officer Samantha Snyder was named the Facilities Security Officer of the Year award. She is a 3-year veteran of the agency.
• Detective Michael Keeton was named the East Drug Enforcement and Special Investigations Unit Detective of the Year. He is a 15-year veteran of the agency.
• Trooper Richard McPhearson was named the Special Operations Trooper of the Year. He is a 22-year veteran of the agency.
• Trooper Christopher Dials was issued the KSP Citation for Bravery. He is a 21-year veteran of the agency and is assigned to the Electronic Crimes Branch.
• Sergeant Michael Caudill received the Lifesaving Medal. He is a 10-year veteran of the agency.

A complete list of award recipients can be found on the KSP website.

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