COLUMBUS, OH – The Ohio State Highway Patrol has announced the recipients of its 2024 Leadership Awards, recognizing outstanding contributions to the state and its communities. Among the honorees was Daniel P. Maher, a Forensic Computer Specialist 2 in the Patrol’s Computer Crimes Unit, who received the prestigious Employee Recognition Award for his exceptional work in digital forensics.
Maher, a Circleville native and former police officer, has become a critical asset in law enforcement, specializing in capturing, extracting, and recovering digital data used to solve crimes. In 2024 alone, he conducted 644 digital forensic examinations, analyzing an astonishing 258.44 terabytes of data across more than 150 cases. His expertise has been instrumental in child exploitation, drug, and cybercrime investigations, both locally and across Ohio.
Beyond his work with the Highway Patrol, Maher holds a reserve position with the Circleville Police Department, where he has played a key role in investigations—particularly in child sex crimes, helping put numerous offenders behind bars. His technical skills, attention to detail, and dedication to justice have made him a respected figure in law enforcement.
Maher’s expertise extends to national recognition. In 2024, the United States Secret Service ranked him 16th out of more than 3,800 digital forensic examiners nationwide. He is also a member of the U.S. Secret Service Cyber Fraud Task Force and was awarded the National Computer Forensics Institute Significant Case Award for his contributions.
Maher, who joined the Ohio State Highway Patrol in 2020, holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from The Ohio State University. His commitment to the field continues to strengthen both state and local law enforcement’s ability to combat cybercrime and protect communities.
Other recognized:
Ohio State Highway Patrol Trooper of the Year – Trooper Sarah A. Korsten
Trooper Sarah A. Korsten, Elyria Post, earned top honors as the 2024 State Trooper of the Year after being selected from nine District Troopers of the Year. Leadership is one of her greatest strengths. Leading by example, Trooper Korsten supports her coworkers and fosters a positive, team-oriented environment. She was nominated by her peers for her balanced and consistent dedication to providing Service with a Purpose and is known for her strong work ethic and leadership throughout the Division.
In 2024, Trooper Korsten made 1,638 total contacts with members of the public, including 180 safety belt citations and 70 distracted driving enforcements. She also investigated 105 crashes, provided 111 motorist assists and arrested 12 impaired drivers. She made three felony arrests, each in a different area – illegal firearms, auto larceny and felony drugs involving approximately 10 grams of illicit drugs.
Trooper Korsten’s sound decision-making goes far beyond statistics. She has earned health and fitness honors within the Patrol and promotes wellness throughout the community. She is involved in a football camp, where she organizes a physical fitness course to challenge and engage participants. She is committed to inspiring the next generation to believe in their ability to achieve anything.
Trooper Korsten joined the Patrol in October 2018 as a member of the 165th Academy Class. She earned her commission in April of the following year and was assigned to the Elyria Post, where she continues to serve.
She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in criminal justice from Kent State University and has served in the United States Army National Guard since 2015.
Ohio State Highway Patrol Dispatcher of the Year – Dispatcher Patrick P. Bowsher
Dispatcher Patrick P. Bowsher, Van Wert Post, earned statewide honors as the 2024 Dispatcher of the Year after being selected from 10 District Dispatcher of the Year recipients. He maintains an exemplary work ethic, encourages and mentors others, and provides direction and support.
Dispatcher Bowsher is an active member of the Members Assistance Team and serves as a field training dispatcher and is devoted to strengthening and maintaining a strong relationship between retired and active members of the Patrol.
In the community, he serves in multiple roles at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Edgerton, including as a Eucharist Minister and a Fourth Degree Member of the Knights of Columbus. Dispatcher Bowsher is also active in the Edgerton Local School District, serving as coach for the middle and high school basketball teams, high school football team and as an announcer at athletic events.
Dispatcher Bowsher joined the Patrol in 1997 as a dispatcher assigned to the Van Wert Post. He has served at the Van Wert Post and Van Wert Dispatch Center throughout his career.
He was previously named as both District and Post Dispatcher of the Year. He also received an Ohio Double Gold Star Telecommunication Award for his extraordinary level of performance from the Ohio Chapters of the National Emergency Number Association and the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials International.
Ohio Trooper Recognition Award – Trooper Dorothy A. Gladden
Trooper Dorothy A. Gladden, Bucyrus District Investigations, earned the Ohio Trooper Recognition Award after being selected from 12 recipients. The award recognizes excellence among troopers who are assigned to specialty positions.
Trooper Gladden investigates criminal offenses occurring at the Mansfield Correctional Institution and assists posts in the Bucyrus District with investigations. She conducts background investigations, interviews, processes evidence and she recently became a member of the Patrol’s Crisis Negotiation Team.
Trooper Gladden joined the Patrol in June 2014 as a dispatcher assigned to the Bucyrus District Headquarters and the Bucyrus Dispatch Center. She became a member of the 160th Academy Class in April 2016. She earned her commission in August of the same year and was assigned to the Elyria Post. As a trooper, she also served at the Bucyrus and Mansfield posts.
In 2015, she was named District Dispatcher of the Year and Post Dispatcher of the Year. In 2024, she earned the designation of Master Trooper. In 2014, she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from The Ohio State University. In 2015, she earned a Master of Science degree in criminal behavior from Tiffin University.
Electronic Technician of the Year – Electronic Technician 2 Trenton N. Terrill
Electronic Technician 2 Trenton N. Terrill, General Headquarters, was selected as the Electronic Technician of the Year. He takes pride in his work in installing equipment, and often helps improve and streamline processes.
ET2 Terrill works diligently to ensure specialty vehicles stay technologically relevant and in good working order. This includes the maintenance, delivery and set up of the Skywatch towers for a variety of public safety events. Throughout the summer and fall, when the towers are in high demand, ET2 Terrill works evenings, weekends and many holidays to ensure towers are properly delivered and set up.
In 2024, ET2 Terrill received a Certificate of Recognition for his efforts to assist the Ohio School Safety Center and Ohio Homeland Security in the deployment of the watch towers.
ET2 Terrill began his career with the Patrol in December 2012 as an Electronic Technician 1 in Central Installation. He was promoted to ET2 in 2014.
Distinguished Retiree Award – Retired Sergeant Charles R. Demuth, Cambridge District
Retired Sergeant Charles R. Demuth, Cambridge District, was selected as the Distinguished Retiree of the Year. Retired Sergeant Demuth volunteers at Ohio Hospice, offering compassionate support and companionship to individuals and families in need. He also volunteers at Cleveland Clinic Union Hospital, helping in various roles to aid both staff and patients, and assists families facing food insecurities at the Dover/New Philadelphia Food Pantry.
In addition, retired Sergeant Demuth stops by posts, brings thoughtful gifts and shares stories of his time with the Patrol. He attends monthly retiree breakfasts and other statewide events.
As a member of the Ohio State Highway Patrol’s 70th Academy Class, Retired Sergeant Demuth served for 32 years at the Hiram and New Philadelphia posts. He retired in 1996.
Family Recognition Award – Madison Foster, Findlay District
Madison Foster, Findlay District, was selected as the recipient of the Family Recognition Award. The daughter of Trooper Adam R. Foster, Defiance Post, Ms. Foster has been a consistent participant in Patrol-related events over the years. She has had an active role in Operation Santa’s Sleigh since 2021 and dressed up as Teddy Trooper during Season of Sharing events.
Ms. Foster is also very active in her community. As a member of the Liberty Center Future Farmers of America, she helped clean the Village of Liberty Center for a community outreach project. She also serves as a volunteer coach for the Liberty Center Youth Softball program and is a member of the Shiloh Christian Union Church Teen Group.
Ms. Foster has a genuine and caring personality, while displaying great respect for her elders, teachers, coaches, friends and family. She represents her church, community and family with great pride.
Colonel Paul A. Pride State Criminal Patrol Award – Trooper Brian K. Garloch
Trooper Brian K. Garloch, Delaware Post, earned the Colonel Paul A. Pride State Criminal Patrol Award for conducting the most felony case investigations, 87, which led to 125 felony arrests in 2024.
Trooper Garloch joined the Patrol in March 2015 as a member of the 158th Academy Class. He earned his commission in September of the same year and was assigned to the Wapakoneta Post. As a trooper, he has also served at the Marion Post. He was named Post Trooper of the Year four times and District Trooper of the Year once. He has won the Criminal Patrol award six times and is a three-time Ace Award winner for excellence in auto larceny.
Trooper Garloch earned an Associate of Applied Science degree in criminal justice from Marion Technical College in 2014.
Colonel Thomas W. Rice Leadership Award – Sergeant Bryan L. Sponaugle
Sergeant Bryan L. Sponaugle, Canton Post, was honored with the Colonel Thomas W. Rice Leadership Award, which is presented to one sworn supervisory officer for outstanding leadership.
Sergeant Sponaugle has deep operational knowledge and leads with competence and compassion. His firsthand experience allows him to guide his shift and set them up for success. He understands that leadership is about more than just directing tasks, but also about inspiring others to realize their potential by pushing them beyond their limits.
Sergeant Sponaugle began his Patrol career in May 2007 as a member of the 148th Academy Class. He earned his commission in January of the following year and was assigned to the Steubenville Post. As a trooper he also served at the Wooster and Canton posts. He was named Post Trooper of the Year in 2018. He earned the Ace Award for excellence in auto larceny enforcement twice and the Criminal Patrol Award once. In 2021, he was promoted to sergeant and was assigned to the Steubenville Post to serve as assistant post commander.
Sergeant Sponaugle served in the United States Marine Corps from 2003 to 2007 and the United States Marine Corps Reserve from 2007 to 2011.
The Colonel Thomas W. Rice Leadership Award is sponsored by the Ohio State Highway Patrol Retirees’ Association and is in honor of former Patrol Superintendent Thomas W. Rice.
Robert M. Chiaramonte Humanitarian Award – Trooper Jared R. Paine and Administrative Professional 1 Tracy J. Harvey
This year, two Robert M. Chiaramonte Humanitarian Awards were presented. The award recognizes officers dedicated to humanitarian causes on the highway and in their communities. This second award was extended to a member of the Patrol’s professional staff.
Trooper Jared R. Paine, Canfield Post, makes a conscious effort to assist the public and his coworkers on a daily basis, and he dedicates his time off-duty to improving the lives of others in his community.
Trooper Paine, along with his wife, founded a non-profit organization called the Emma Elf Project in honor of their daughter who was diagnosed with non-verbal autism. The Mahoning County-based organization brings together kids with developmental disabilities and neuro-typical kids to work on adaptive art projects. The Paines were instrumental in contributing to the creation of a new sensory room for children in the Poland Local School District.
Trooper Paine serves as a field training officer, college intern mentor and a member of the Veterans Member Assistance Team.
Trooper Paine began his Patrol career in November 2012 as a member of the 154th Academy Class. He earned his commission in April of the following year and was assigned to the St. Clairsville Post. He has also served at the Lisbon Post. In 2023, he was named Post Trooper of the Year. He earned the Master Trooper designation in 2024.
He served in the United States Marine Corps from 2005 to 2009.
Administrative Professional 1 Tracy J. Harvey, Mt. Gilead Post, is a selfless and dedicated individual who consistently puts others first. In February 2024, when she learned that a coworker was in need, she offered her assistance without hesitation.
Her willingness to act for the benefit of others embodies the Patrol’s Core Value of Family, which is expressed through how Patrol personnel support each other during difficult times.
AP1 Harvey joined the Patrol in August 2010 as a secretary assigned to the Mt. Gilead Post. In 2011, she was promoted to her current position as an administrative professional 1. She has been honored three times with the District Employee Recognition Award.
She earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in marketing from Bowling Green State University in 1994.
Blue Max Award (Patrol’s top auto larceny enforcer) – Sergeant Matthew D. Boyer
Sergeant Matthew D. Boyer, Cambridge District Criminal Patrol Unit, earned the Blue Max Award for the fourth consecutive year, and the fifth time overall, by recovering the most stolen vehicles, 25, which resulted in 32 arrests.
Sergeant Boyer joined the Patrol in March 2015 as a member of the 158th Academy Class, and earned his commission in September of that year. As a trooper, he served at the Lisbon, Canfield, Canton and Akron posts, as well as the Cleveland and Warren district Criminal Patrol units.
In 2019, he earned the Colonel Paul A. Pride State Criminal Patrol Award. In 2021, he earned the Superintendent’s Award of Excellence. In 2024, he earned the designation of Master Trooper, and has since been promoted to sergeant and transferred to the Cambridge District Criminal Patrol Unit.
Sergeant Boyer earned an Associate degree in criminal justice from the University of Akron in 2014.
Police Officer of the Year – Police Officer 2 Joshua E. Wayt
Police Officer 2 Joshua E. Wayt, Expo Center, was selected as Police Officer of the Year for embodying the Patrol’s Core Values.
PO2 Wayt has a positive attitude and strong work ethic, and is an influential leader at the post. He is willing to assist younger officers with their crash and case investigations, as well as outside units who have a detail at the Expo Center. PO2 Wayt is an asset to the citizens of Ohio and the Division.
PO2 Wayt joined the Patrol in 2012 and previously worked for Capitol Operations.
Motor Vehicle Inspector of the Year – Motor Vehicle Inspector Lauren E. Merz
Motor Vehicle Inspector Lauren E. Merz, Warren District Commercial Enforcement Unit, was selected as Motor Vehicle Inspector of the Year. She received high praise for completing 1,024 school bus inspections and 805 vehicle identity inspections throughout the Warren District.
MVI Merz has been with the Ohio State Highway Patrol since January 1993. She began her career as a member of the 124th Academy Class, serving in the Warren District throughout her career.
She retired as a trooper in May 2019 and began working as a dispatcher in the Warren Dispatch Center in November of that year. In January 2021, she became a motor vehicle inspector assigned to Warren District Commercial Enforcement.
Motor Carrier Enforcement Inspector of the Year – Motor Carrier Enforcement Inspector William L. Mason
Motor Carrier Enforcement Inspector William L. Mason, Cambridge District Commercial Enforcement Unit, was selected as Motor Carrier Enforcement Inspector of the Year for being the top inspector in total number of commercial inspections in the Cambridge District. He was active in removing illegal narcotics from commercial vehicles, generating five felony drug cases in 2024.
MCEI Mason joined the Patrol in June 2014 as a dispatcher assigned to the Cambridge District Headquarters. He also served as a dispatcher at the Cambridge Dispatch Center. In 2022, he was promoted to motor carrier enforcement inspector and was assigned to Cambridge District Commercial Enforcement.
In 2013, he earned an Associate of Applied Justice degree in criminal justice from Zane State College.
Auxiliary Awards
The following awards are for the Patrol’s Auxiliary members, an all-volunteer force that provides assistance to troopers.
William J. Duffy Award of Excellence – Auxiliary Officer Daniel C. Masula
Auxiliary Officer Daniel C. Masula, West Jefferson Post, earned the William J. Duffy Award of Excellence for his dedication to the Patrol. Qualifying for the award requires a minimum of 300 volunteer hours per year over three consecutive years.
Auxiliary Masula joined the Ohio State Highway Patrol Auxiliary in October 2021. He has worked more than 1,000 hours through the last several years, riding on road patrol with troopers. He has also worked special details, including OVI checkpoints and the Ohio State Fair.
State Auxiliary Officer of the Year – Auxiliary Staff Major Brian W. Simpson
Auxiliary Staff Major Brian W. Simpson, Granville Post, was selected as the State Auxiliary Officer of the Year.
He began with the Ohio State Highway Patrol Auxiliary in April 2000 and is the longest-serving active member. The 25-year veteran worked more hours in 2024 than any other auxiliary member, with a total of 660 hours.
Auxiliary Simpson worked alongside troopers on patrol, OVI checkpoints, the Ohio State Fair and details for The Ohio State University football games.
Partners for Safety Award – Fonda Freeman and the Ohio Association of County Behavioral Health Authorities; and Chief Communications Officer David Rose and Press Secretary Matt Bruning, Ohio Department of Transportation
The Partners for Safety initiative successfully blends statewide corporate partnerships with innovative initiatives at the local level. Partners for Safety involves a commitment of operational, public outreach and relations, and educational activities involving the Patrol and community residents. A lasting goal of the Partners for Safety effort is to promote a safer highway environment, reduce traffic crashes, achieve voluntary compliance with motor vehicle traffic laws, positively impact highway crime at the local level and support other Patrol initiatives.
Associate CEO Fonda Freeman, of the Ohio Association of County Behavioral Health Authorities (OACBHA), was selected for her instrumental role in addressing impaired driving in Ohio through her partnership with the Ohio State Highway Patrol’s (OSHP) Operation New Beginnings program.
Operation New Beginnings is a collaborative effort between the Patrol and local health providers to address impaired driving. Freeman invited Patrol personnel to present the initiative to OACBHA’s members. This led to a groundbreaking partnership, where local Alcohol, Drug and Mental Health (ADAMH) boards began working directly with the OSHP to provide support to individuals arrested for impaired driving.
Freeman’s efforts have significantly expanded Operation New Beginnings, starting in 2023 with 11 counties and now serving 58 Ohio counties. Her work is providing resources and vital support to individuals arrested for impaired driving, aiming to reduce recidivism, promote recovery and create safer communities.
Chief Communications Officer David Rose and Press Secretary Matt Bruning, of the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT), were selected for their outstanding collaboration and commitment to community safety during two high-profile initiatives in 2024.
On April 8, ODOT’s comprehensive communication efforts surrounding Ohio’s total solar eclipse brought together ODOT, the OSHP and various state partners. Their coordinated efforts before, during and after the eclipse ensured public safety and effective traffic management, avoiding the post-eclipse gridlock other states experienced. In addition, ODOT’s federally-funded media campaign for the Move Over-Slow Down program raised awareness about work zone safety, including featuring the OSHP in a series of impactful television and social media ads.
Their contributions highlight the vital partnership between ODOT and the OSHP in promoting public safety across the state.
Note to Editors: Below are District honors for: District Trooper of the Year, District Dispatcher of the Year, District Trooper Recognition and District Employee Recognition. For photographs of award winners, email [email protected].
Findlay District – Trooper Ann M. Geer, Swanton Post; Dispatcher Patrick P. Bowsher, Van Wert Post; Trooper Chad A. Spallinger, Findlay District Commercial Enforcement; Rhonda K. Eck (Administrative Professional 1), Lima Post.
Bucyrus District – Trooper Shane D. Spieth, Fremont Post; Dispatcher Heather A. Kanouse, Bucyrus Post; Trooper Dorothy A. Gladden, Bucyrus District Investigations; Keri A. Smith (Administrative Professional 1), Mansfield Post.
Cleveland District – Trooper Sarah A. Korsten, Elyria Post; Dispatcher Susan M. Kelley, Wooster Post; Trooper James M. Donohue, Cleveland District Investigations; Robin L. Galvin (Administrative Professional 4), Cleveland District Headquarters.
Warren District – Trooper Jaime Santiago, Chardon Post; Dispatcher Kristen M. Paolillo, Warren Post; Trooper Clayton A. Williams, Warren District Commercial Enforcement; Julie L. Szeker (Administrative Professional 1), Chardon Post.
Piqua District – Trooper Coleton J. Piatt, Springfield Post; Dispatcher Chelsea L. Sederstrand, Springfield Post; Trooper Clayton A. Williams, Piqua District Commercial Enforcement; Stacy L. Mullen (Administrative Professional 4), Piqua District Headquarters.
Columbus District – Trooper Brian K. Garloch, Delaware Post; Dispatcher Taylor J. Richards, West Jefferson Post; Trooper Michael R. Wilson, Columbus District Criminal Patrol; Gary D. Christian (Maintenance Repair Worker 2), Lancaster Post.
Cambridge District – Sergeant Jeremy L. Border, Zanesville Post (earned the award as a Cambridge Post trooper); Dispatcher Kali Wheeler, St. Clairsville Post; Trooper Trenas M. Weaver, Cambridge District Investigations; Christopher L. Baker (Infrastructure Specialist 2), Cambridge District Headquarters.
Wilmington District – Trooper Scott T. Prebble, Georgetown Post; Dispatcher Amy J. Kirk, Lebanon Post; Trooper Matthew R. Caldwell, Wilmington District Investigations; Robert I. Eakins (Infrastructure Specialist 2), Wilmington District Headquarters.
Jackson District – Trooper Trent J. Thompson, Portsmouth Post; Dispatcher Garrick B. Payne, Jackson Post; Trooper Rebecca S. Sexton, Jackson District Commercial Enforcement; Lynne A. Robinson (Administrative Professional 4), Jackson District Headquarters.
GHQ – Dispatcher Morgan M. Robinson, Columbus Communications Center; Sergeant Nadi C. Graham, Special Response Team; Trooper Diep N. Pham, Recruitment & Diversity; Trooper Paul E. Appleman, Staffing Services; Samantha D. Grubb (Administrative Professional 3), Operations; Emily R. Bocook (Criminalist), Crime Lab; Alexander C. Ell (Inventory Control Specialist Supervisor), Tailor Shop; Daniel P. Maher (Forensic Computer Specialist 2), Computer Crimes Unit; Lindsay M. Pinkerman (Program Administrator 2), Staffing Services.
Robert Chiaramonte Humanitarian Award recipients: Trooper Shane D. Spieth, Bucyrus District; Sergeant Robert E. Gable, Cleveland District; Trooper Jared R. Paine, Warren District; Trooper Jaysen P. Kelly, Piqua District; Lieutenant Eric D. Holbrook, Columbus District; Sergeant Brian W. Hawkins, Cambridge District; Trooper Todd Stevens, Wilmington District; Trooper Trent J. Thompson, Jackson District.
District and GHQ Rice Leadership recipients: Sergeant Chad A. Recker, Findlay District; Sergeant Matthew W. Davis, Bucyrus District; Sergeant Bryan L. Sponaugle, Cleveland District; Sergeant Charles E. Hoskin, Warren District; Sergeant Ryan M. May, Piqua District; Sergeant Andrew P. Geer, Columbus District; Sergeant Clinton D. Armstrong, Cambridge District; Sergeant Nathan J. Pabin, Wilmington District; Sergeant Christopher K. Davis, Jackson District; Sergeant Timothy B. Williamson, General Headquarters; Sergeant Timothy K. Bullock, General Headquarters.
District and GHQ Electronic Technician of the Year recipients: ET3 Kraig A. Kent, Findlay District; ET2 Douglas Morrison, Bucyrus District; ET2 Douglas A. Carnegie, Cleveland District; ET2 Terry E. Maffitt, Warren District; ET2 Shawn M. Conley, Piqua District; ET2 Chad M. Morrison, Columbus District; ET2 James K. Howell, Cambridge District; ET2 Brian E. Shepherd, Wilmington District; ET2 Brian R. Howard, Jackson District.
District Motor Carrier Enforcement Inspector of the Year recipients: MCEI Lawrence E. Hampton, Findlay District: MCEI Lorrence C. Herbert, Bucyrus District; MCEI Richard D. Bell, Cleveland District; Trooper Rodney D. Ramps, Warren District; MCEI Michael S. Elkins, Piqua District; MCEI Leo T. Grabovich, Columbus District; MCEI William L. Mason, Cambridge District; MCEI William S. Johnson, Wilmington District; MCEI Drew E. Fry, Jackson District.
District Motor Vehicle Inspector of the Year recipients: MVI Todd E. Tegenkamp, Findlay District; MVI Christopher J. Lawson, Bucyrus District; MVI David L. Guzowski, Cleveland District; MVI Lauren E. Merz, Warren District; MVI William D. Taylor, Piqua District; MVI Brian W. Landis, Columbus District; MVI Bryan L. Powell, Cambridge District; MVI Elvin Cordero, Wilmington District; MVI Jeffrey H. Gordon, Jackson District.
District Patrol Family Recognition recipients: Madison Foster, Findlay District; Aubrey Lash, Bucyrus District; Rachael Susak-Heil, Cleveland District; Tara Barnard, Warren District; Stephanie Kelly, Piqua District; Bethany Landis, Columbus District; Bryson Bodo, Cambridge District; Rebekah Prebble, Wilmington District; Bridgette Malone, Jackson District.
District Distinguished Retiree recipients: Retired Colonel Richard H. Collins, Findlay District; Retired Motor Vehicle Inspector Charles B. Beasley, Bucyrus District; Retired Captain Eric R. Sheppard, Cleveland District; Retired Trooper Jeffery D. Ruddle, Warren District; Retired Sergeant Charles R. Demuth, Cambridge District; Retired Sergeant Thomas M. Bloomberg Jr., Wilmington District; Retired Staff Lieutenant Richard Scott Borden, Jackson District.
