WSP's 44 Newest Troopers Are Its Most Diverse Class In Agency History

OLYMPIA, WA — Washington State Patrol's latest batch of recruits is the most diverse class the agency has ever seen.

WSP on Thursday welcomed 44 new troopers, all graduates from its 115th Trooper Basic Training Class. The recruits hale from as far away as Thailand and Russia, and are WSP's most diverse graduating class yet, with 43 percent of the class coming from historically underrepresented groups in law enforcement.

At a formal ceremony welcoming them to the force, the recruits were recognized by Governor Jay Inslee, WSP Chief John R. Batiste and State Supreme Court Justice Helen Whitener.

“Our agency has received the highest level of accreditation for law enforcement in the world,” said Chief Batiste. “We will count on you to live up to that honor and meet those standards in all that you do and say. But it will always be your honesty, character, courage, compassion and professionalism that makes a difference the lives of the people we serve.”

As part of their 1,400 hours of training, the 44 troopers have already interacted with more than 8,000 Washingtonians on the roadways, including arresting 700 DUI drivers, investigating 650 crashes and helping 2,000 stranded motorists.

Following the ceremony the newly-minted troopers were officially sworn in. Some recruits were also presented awards for going above and beyond the call of duty, including:

Top Academic Award

Presented to Trooper Maxwell A. Puff who attained the highest grade point average compiled over 30 exams and quizzes.

Top Driving Award

Presented to Trooper Jared M. Gearhart, recognized for his driving skills, decision making and positive mindset.

Top Firearms Award

Presented to Trooper Regan J. Klepac; this award recognizes the highest marksmanship scores and skills.

Top Physical Fitness Award

Presented to Trooper Javier Nunez III consistently performing at the top of the TBTC during physical training.

Top Control Tactics Award
Presented to Trooper Juan Martinez Jr. proficiency in control tactics, self-defense, handcuffing, searching and the use of force thought process.

Top Collision Investigation Award

Presented to Trooper Adam J. Harlan, recognizing his skills with collision investigation, including mathematical computation, scene investigation and evidence gathering.

Top Overall Cadet Award

Presented to Trooper Noah D. Baker. WSP says Baker demonstrated the necessary skills, abilities and judgement to be an excellent trooper, and made extra efforts to make continuous improvements.

Now that the 115th Trooper Basic Training Class has graduated, WSP is turning its attention to the 116th class, which will begin training later this month.