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Three troopers honored
PUTNAMVILLE -- Three Putnamville District troopers were honored for their dedication and service to the department and citizens of Indiana during an awards ceremony this week at the Indiana Government Center in Indianapolis.
Indiana State Police Supt. Douglas G. Carter and his staff recognized Trooper Yan J. Dravigne, who resides in Putnam County with his family, as the 2013 Trooper of the District for Putnamville.
Trooper Dravigne was overwhelmingly selected by his peers and the District 53 Command Team for his aggressive enforcement efforts and work ethic.
In 2013, Trooper Dravigne made 30 driving under the influence arrests and 93 criminal arrests, 37 of which were felonies. In addition, the majority of his criminal arrests were for individuals transporting illegal drugs along Interstate 70.
Dravigne is a six-year veteran of the department, serving the first four years as an ISP civilian motor carrier inspector (MCI) and the last two as a road trooper. During his time as an MCI, Dravigne received the Ray Reed Award for 2010 MCI of the Year and in 2011 the Commander's Award for his drug interdiction efforts.
A native of Canada, Dravigne graduated from Northview High School in Brazil.
"Trooper Dravigne is one of the most professional, hard-working and respected troopers in our district. He is most deserving of this award," Lt. Dan Jones, commander of the Putnamville District, commented.
Senior Trooper Ty Lightle was presented a Commendation Award for his May 10, 2010 efforts in rural Sullivan County.
Trooper Lightle responded with local agencies to a report of a man armed with a knife and holding a propane tank threatening to explode it near the officers. The suspect was known to be aggressive and was refusing to leave a family member's home. After a few minutes, Trooper Lightle was able to initiate a verbal dialogue, advance on the suspect, and take him into custody after a brief struggle.
Lightle's actions and dedication to duty were lauded for keeping with the finest traditions of law enforcement and reflecting great credit upon himself and the State Police. Lightle is a 14 ½-year veteran of the ISP and primarily patrols Parke and Vermillion counties. He and his family reside in rural Parke County.
Trooper Brandon Mullen was presented the Life Award for his commitment to removing impaired drivers from Indiana roadways in 2013.
Mullen led the Putnamville District with 31 impaired driver arrests, marking the sixth consecutive year Mullen has led the Putnamville District in DUI arrests. In a six-year span, Mullen has removed nearly 450 drunk drivers from our roadways. An eight-year veteran of the ISP, he primarily patrols Clay County. He and his family reside in rural Vigo County.