The Kentucky State Police recognized its top sworn personnel Thursday during the agency’s annual Sworn Awards Ceremony, honoring 84 troopers, detectives and officers who went above and beyond the call of duty during 2025.
State Police officials say the awards recognize those dedicated to protecting Kentucky’s 120 counties and helping create a safer Commonwealth. During 2025, KSP responded to more than 532,000 calls for service, conducted thousands of wellness checks during dangerous weather, protected children from online predators, secured justice for crime victims and assisted local law enforcement agencies across the state.
Several troopers with local ties were among this year’s top honorees. Trooper Derek Dennis of Wayne County, assigned to Post 11 in London, was named Kentucky State Police Trooper of the Year. The one-year KSP veteran also received the Lifesaving Award.
Detective Dexter Colvin, a nine-year veteran assigned to Post 15 in Columbia, was named Detective of the Year, while Trooper Jonathan Houk, a 16-year veteran also assigned to Post 15, received the Public Affairs Officer of the Year Award.
Trooper First Class Jason Warinner of Albany, assigned to Post 3 in Bowling Green, was one of eight officers to receive the prestigious KSP Citation for Bravery, presented to troopers who demonstrate exceptional courage in life-threatening situations beyond the normal risks of duty.
The ceremony also honored 22 troopers who responded to the devastating May 16th, 2025 EF-4 tornado that struck Russell, Pulaski and Laurel counties, killing 19 people and leaving widespread destruction in its path. PHOTO L-R: Trooper Jonathan Houk, Trooper Derek Dennis, Trooper Robert Dials, Jr., Officer Gregory Baxter, Detective Dexter Colvin and Commissioner Phillip Burnett, Jr.