Kentucky State Police Post 9 Troopers Recognized at Annual Awards Ceremony 

LEXINGTON, Ky. (July 26, 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.

“It is an honor not only to serve as the commander of Post 9, but to serve alongside these outstanding troopers and detectives.” Said Post 9 Commander Captain Brad Riley. “The awards presented today are just a small example of how our troopers go above and beyond each day to serve and protect their communities. I have had the privilege of watching their dedication and professionalism firsthand, and I am proud of each and every one of them.”

  Recipients from the Post 9 area include:

• Detective Dylan Mullins was named the 2025 Post 9 Detective of the Year. Detective Mullins is a 7-year veteran of the agency.
• Trooper Izaeyah Dotson was named the 2025 Post 9 Trooper of the Year. Trooper Dotson is a 3-year veteran of the agency.
• Trooper Mitchell Culbertson received a Lifesaving Award. Trooper Culbertson is a 3-year veteran of the agency.
• Trooper Jonathan Rouse received a Citation for Bravery. Trooper Rouse is an 11-year veteran of the agency
• Trooper Ryan Hale received a Citation for Bravery. Trooper Hale is a 10-year veteran of the agency
• Trooper Braxton Whitmore received a Citation for Bravery. Trooper Whitmore is a 5-year veteran of the agency.
• Trooper Nicholas Taylor received a Citation for Bravery. Trooper Taylor is a 4-year veteran of the agency
• Trooper Ricky Newsom received a Citation for Bravery. Trooper Newsom is an 11-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.

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Editor’s Note: photo identification (left to right) Detective Dylan Mullins, Trooper Jonathan Rouse, Trooper Nicholas Taylor, Trooper Braxton Whitmore, Trooper Izaeyah Dotson, Trooper Ricky Newson and Trooper Mitchell Culbertson. Not shown: Trooper Ryan Hale.