Versailles troopers receive honors

Versailles, in. — Indianapolis-On Friday, April 20, 2018, three troopers and two motor carrier inspectors from the Versailles District received awards from Indiana State Police Superintendent Douglas Carter during a ceremony at the Indiana State Government Center in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Trooper Jordan Craig was honored as being chosen as the Versailles District’s “Trooper of the District” for 2017.  Trp. Craig is a K-9 Handler and a two year veteran of the Indiana State Police.  Trp. Craig currently serves on the Indiana State Police-Versailles Criminal Patrol Team.  The award is given annually to the trooper from each ISP district who shows exceptional work ethic and excels in criminal investigations and community relations.

Trooper James Herbert was honored with a “DUI Enforcement Award” at the ceremony.  Trp. Herbert was recognized for having arrested 63 intoxicated drivers during 2017 which led the Indiana State Police-Versailles District.  The 63 arrests also ranked him in the “Top 5” for DUI arrests among all Indiana troopers.  Trp. Herbert is a three year veteran of the Indiana State Police.

Trooper Christopher Lockman was given a “Life Saving Award” and a “Silver Star” for his efforts in saving the life of a man trapped in floodwaters on a Jackson County road on May 7, 2017.  The incident occurred on County Road 50 North when a vehicle was swept off the roadway in heavy floodwaters and began to sink.  Trp. Lockman and deputies with the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department arrived on scene to attempt a rescue of the driver, who was disabled.  Trp. Lockman, who is an ISP-Dive Team Member, entered the water with the assistance of the deputies.  He was able to reach the man and rescued him from the vehicle just prior to the vehicle being completely submerged in water.  The officers pulled the man to dry ground and provided medical assistance.  Trp. Lockman is a seven year veteran of the Indiana State Police.

Master Motor Carrier Inspector William St. John was given the “Ralph Reed Award” as the Indiana Motor Carrier Inspector of the Year.  The award is given out annually to the motor carrier inspector who shows exemplary work ethic, motivation, and dedication towards completing the mission of the Indiana State Police Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division.  M/MCI St. John worked out of the I-74 West Harrison Truck Scales.  He retired earlier this month after serving 30 years with the ISP-CVED Division.

Master Motor Carrier Inspector Mary Eglen was given a “Life Saving Award” for her actions while off duty and visiting California in December 2017.  While eating dinner at a restaurant in Monrovia, California, a person began choking inside the restaurant.  M/MCI Eglen successfully administered the “Heimlich Maneuver” which dislodged the object from the woman’s throat, effectively saving her life.  M/MCI Eglen works out of the I-65 Seymour Truck Scales.  She is a 28 year veteran of the Indiana State Police Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division.

Indiana State Police-Versailles District Commander Lieutenant Paul Adams stated “The work of these Indiana State Police employees shouldn’t go unnoticed.  Their dedication and commitment to the mission of the Indiana State Police has provided an important public service that has made our communities better places to live.”