Three probationary troopers arrive at Putnamville Post

Monday, March 21, 2011

PUTNAMVILLE -- Probationary troopers Michael C. Orman, Brian S. Thomas and Marcus R. Tow reported to the Indiana State Police Putnamville Post for their first official day on March 14. They were members of the 70th Indiana State Police Recruit Academy, which graduated 43 probationary troopers on March 4.

During the 24-week academy, recruits received approximately 840 hours of structured law enforcement training. Their curriculum included 80 hours of criminal law instruction, 50 hours of vehicle operations training, 30 hours of psychology and 40 hours of "Survival Spanish." They also developed skills in criminal investigation, vehicle crash investigation and impaired driver detection.

Probationary Trooper Michael C. Organ is from Rosedale and a graduate of Riverton Parke High School. Organ is also a graduate of Indiana State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in sports management. Previous law enforcement experience was earned while he was employed at the Rockville Correctional Facility. He resides in rural Parke County with his wife and two children.

Probationary Trooper Brian S. Thomas is a native of Connersville and graduate of Terre Haute North High School. Thomas attended Indiana State University where he majored in criminology. He has previous law enforcement experience as a reserve deputy for the Vigo County Sheriff's Department and a supervisor for Vigo County Community Corrections. He is married with two children, and the family resides in Terre Haute.

Probationary Trooper Marcus R. Tow is a native of Sullivan, having graduated from Sullivan High School. Tow is a graduate of Indiana State University with degrees in history and political science. He has previous law enforcement experience as a probation officer for Sullivan County. He resides in Terre Haute. Tow's father Mark is a 25-year veteran of the ISP and is currently a first sergeant assigned to the Emergency Response Services unit as the Assistant Commander.

All three will start 14 weeks of field training with experienced troopers. The program allows them to put the skills and knowledge gained in the academy setting to work in the field. Upon successful completion of the field training program, they will receive their own patrol cars and begin solo road patrol responsibilities.

The trio has tentatively been assigned to patrol Putnam County, contingent upon successful completion of their field training.

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