INDIANAPOLIS — On Wednesday, the Indiana State Police held an awards and recognition ceremony in Indianapolis to publicly recognize the achievements, sacrifices, and dedication of its employees from across the state.
Trooper Francisco Miramontes was awarded the 2023 Indiana State Police Lafayette Post Trooper of the District. This prestigious award is bestowed annually upon the trooper who exemplifies integrity, professionalism, and a comprehensive work ethic. Miramontes, selected by the command staff at the Lafayette Post, was recognized for his unwavering dedication to his duties, including traffic and criminal enforcement, community engagement, instructor ratings, special assignments, and other exemplary services that surpass departmental expectations. In 2023 alone, Miramontes recorded 289 criminal arrests, investigated 51 crashes, responded to 1,263 calls for service, and initiated 790 traffic stops.
Trooper Mitchell McKinney was honored with the Indiana State Police Lafayette District DUI Award for his steadfast commitment to removing impaired drivers from Indiana roadways. Leading the Lafayette Post with 78 impaired driving arrests in 2023, McKinney’s actions continue to enhance road safety for the citizens of Indiana.
Trooper David Millburg, alongside Sergeant Kemp and Deputy Bowling of the Fountain County Sheriff’s Department, were all recipients of the Life Saving Award. In 2023, these officers responded to an incident involving a subject in medical distress, in a barn in Fountain County. Upon arrival, they discovered an individual in need of immediate medical assistance. Through their swift actions, the officers forced entry into the barn and provided vital medical aid until Fountain County EMS arrived, ultimately playing a crucial role in saving the individual’s life.
Trooper Nathaniel King, from the Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division, also received a Life Saving Award. While off duty in 2023, having dinner with his wife at a restaurant in Indiana, Trooper King observed someone choking. Without hesitation, he swiftly administered the Heimlich Maneuver, successfully dislodging the obstructing object and restoring normal breathing to the individual. Trooper King stayed with the subject until emergency medical personnel arrived, ensuring continued care and support. King’s commendable act exemplifies the unwavering dedication of Indiana State Police troopers, even when off duty, to render assistance whenever and wherever it is needed.
