By 1812Blockhouse
The Ohio State Highway Patrol recently held its 2024 Leadership Awards ceremony, celebrating the dedication and outstanding service of troopers and staff members across the state. Among the honorees was Trooper Dorothy A. Gladden, a key investigator in the Bucyrus District, which includes Richland County.
Trooper Dorothy A. Gladden Earns Ohio Trooper Recognition Award
Trooper Dorothy A. Gladden was recognized with the Ohio Trooper Recognition Award, an honor given to troopers excelling in specialized assignments. Selected from 12 statewide recipients, Trooper Gladden’s investigative work at the Mansfield Correctional Institution and her contributions to regional investigations made her stand out among her peers.
Gladden is responsible for conducting background investigations, interviewing subjects, processing evidence, and assisting the Bucyrus District posts in various criminal cases. She recently joined the Patrol’s Crisis Negotiation Team, further enhancing her expertise in law enforcement.
Her career with the Ohio State Highway Patrol began in 2014 as a dispatcher at the Bucyrus District Headquarters and Bucyrus Dispatch Center. She later joined the 160th Academy Class in 2016, earning her commission that August. Over the years, she served at the Elyria, Bucyrus, and Mansfield posts, taking on increasing responsibilities.
Her achievements include:
- District Dispatcher of the Year (2015)
- Post Dispatcher of the Year (2015)
- Master Trooper designation (2024)
Trooper Gladden holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from The Ohio State University (2014) and a Master of Science in Criminal Behavior from Tiffin University (2015), showcasing her strong academic and professional foundation in law enforcement.
Additional Bucyrus District Recognitions
In addition to Trooper Gladden’s statewide award, she also received a Bucyrus District Trooper Recognition. Another local honoree, Keri A. Smith, an Administrative Professional at the Mansfield Post, was recognized with the Bucyrus District Employee Recognition for her contributions to the department’s success.
These awards highlight the dedication of OSHP personnel in ensuring public safety, criminal investigations, and effective law enforcement operations across Richland County and beyond.
Honoring Service and Dedication
The Ohio State Highway Patrol Leadership Awards serve as a testament to the hard work and professionalism of troopers and staff members across the state. For the Bucyrus District and Mansfield Post, Trooper Gladden and Keri Smith’s recognitions emphasize the impact of local law enforcement on the community’s safety and well-being.
Source, Image: Ohio State Highway Patrol
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