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Montana Trooper celebrates 75 years of service, 1935-2010 *Editor’s note: This is the second in a two part series chron - pay issues. Ultimately, the strike lasted less than a week, icling the proud 75 year history of the Montana Highway with the legislature offering a pay increase. On December Patrol. This second segment covers 1989 through 2010. 19, Officer Shawn Driscoll was involved in a shooting with a bank robbery suspect near Missoula. The suspect fired In 1989, Attorney General Marc Racicot took office, and multiple rounds at Officer Driscoll from an assault rifle, and Colonel Robert Griffith was promoted to chief administra - Officer Driscoll returned fire with his 9mm pistol, fatally tor of the Patrol. The retired patrolmen’s association merged injuring the suspect. Officer Driscoll was subsequently award - with the AMHP. Montanans enjoyed a 40 year traffic fatal - ed the Medal of Valor for his actions that day. ity low with 181 fatalities. In May, the AMHP initiated a In 1992, light blue Chevrolet Caprice patrol cars were scholarship program for member’s children. In again issued, and Officer Shawn Driscoll became April, Officer Mary Pat Murphy was wounded one of the first officers to have a video camera by a suspect driver who had shot and killed installed in his patrol car, purchased at his his passenger on US Highway 87 North, north own expense. Local DUI Task Force of Great Falls. While she eventually returned organizations also began purchasing to duty, her injuries later forced her early cameras for officers to document disability retirement several years later. In their cases. Officer Francine Giono October, the Patrol began to convert from was wounded and killed her assailant in a Smith & Wesson model 28 or “Highway a shooting while working as a part of the Patrolman” .357 caliber blued revolver APU near Missoula. Sergeant Frank Stevi - to the Smith & Wesson model 5903 son was no longer the APU commander, with 9mm caliber stainless steel semi-automatic Sergeant Larry Strickland taking over. pistol. The .357 had a capacity of six In 1993, a green rounds with two reloads, while the 9mm had fifteen round Ford Crown Victoria was dri - magazines with two reloads. The Patrol’s FTO program con - ven. Attorney General Joseph tinued to evolve. White Dodge patrol cars were again issued. Mazurek took office on Janu - On October 24, Janet Baker became the first female sergeant ary 4, and Colonel Robert Grif - in Highway Patrol history, being assigned to Glendive, then fith continued as the chief of Billings. Captain Davis was no longer the commander of the Montana Highway Patrol. the APU, and Sergeant Frank Stevison took over. There were 194 traffic fatal - 1993 Ford Crown Victoria. In 1990, the AMHP’s Mon - ities, and the “Little Convin - tana Hope Project became inde - cer” seat belt awareness program was implemented. pendent of the AMHP. The In 1994, a dark blue Chevro - highway death toll rose to 212, let Caprice with the LT1 Corvette and the Patrol began to adopt engine, a favorite amongst many military surplus M-14 .308 cal - officers, was driven. With iber rifles for voluntary use Colonel Robert Griffith’s retire - 1990 Chevrolet Caprice. by its officers after the .30- ment on March 31, 1994, Colonel 30 caliber rifle was dropped Craig Reap assumed the top in 1983. White Chevrolet Caprice patrol cars were being 1994 Chevrolet Caprice. position in the Patrol. There driven. The 30th academy was were 202 traffic fatalities, and held and graduated the last of there were an estimated 165 patrol officers, 21 sergeants, 4 the cadets. lieutenants, and 5 captains in five districts (Missoula, Great In 1991, a light blue Chevro - Falls, Butte, Billings, and Glendive). A micro computer sys - let Caprice was driven and there tem was used in accident records to compile crash data, local was a decline in highway deaths area networks were installed in two district offices, the MHP to 200. Early in the year, patrol activity system was redesigned, computer aided dispatch was officers went on strike over 1991 Chevrolet Caprice. becoming a reality, and head - more ®

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speeds on the highways, as the fuel con - servation limit of 55 mph on the two lane highways and the 65 mph speed limit on interstate highways was lifted. The con - servation limits had been in effect since 1974. There were 215 fatalities on the highways, along with 1.2 radio trans - missions with three dispatch centers in Missoula, Helena, and Billings. With 24 hour dispatch coverage, there were 29 full time personnel, 170,000 phone calls, and 50,000 incidents. These transmis - sions were received from 238 vehicles and 64 remote repeater sites, managed by two full time radio technicians. In an effort to reduce upper management posi - tions and bolster the number of patrol officers, Colonel Reap began a plan to eliminate lieutenants or assistant district commanders. Lieutenants in districts that did not have a communications cen - ter were the first to be eliminated, and The MHP's Honor Guard at the Law Enforcement memorial on the capitol grounds on May 15, as the communications centers were later 2009. Photo by Clarke Sutphin. consolidated into one location in Hele - na, those positions were also eliminated quarters had twenty-two support staff. the current issue license plate were dri - through attrition and/or promotion. Offi - Officers received new Second Chance ven. In addition, one Dodge Intrepid was cers were working nine hours a day and Monarch body armor. The aviation pro - driven by Officer Tom Butler in Helena. being paid for eight, working six day gram, which had been ongoing since Replacement badges read Patrol Officer. weeks which saw them rotate from night 1983 with Officer Randy Yaeger as the The Patrol began buying in car video cam - shifts to day shifts in the course of those pilot, moved its Cessna 182 RG fixed eras in large numbers, equipping approx - six days, with generally two rotating days wing aircraft to a new hangar at the Hele - imately 1/3 of its fleet in May. The 1995 off following. A typical schedule might na airport. At the time of the move, there legislature authorized a memorial to all have an officer working at 1800 hours to was also a proposal for a Patrol helicopter. fallen Montana law enforcement officers 0300 the first two days, 1500 to 0000 the The 33rd recruit academy was held once on the capitol grounds, and Officer Tom third, 0900 to 1800 the fourth and fifth, again at Fort Harrison near Helena, with Butler spearheaded this project. The and 0700 to 1600 the sixth. 25 graduates. Officers John Stewart and crash report system, which had previ - Jeff Mount each received the Medal of ously been a three part carbonless white, Valor for separate incidents. In May, yellow, and pink form in use since 1972, Officer Pete Richardson began to plan was revamped as the Montana Accident for the Patrol’s Honor Guard, which Investigators Report, a one part form. became a reality in October, staffed by Officers underwent training in the Free - ten officers from the AMHP’s member - man and Militia movements gaining ship and sponsored by the AMHP. Also momentum in Montana and across the in October, Stop Sticks were first pur - country. In May, the Patrol celebrated chased and distributed to officers in an its 60th anniversary, and the television effort to help curb high speed pursuits. series Real Stories of the Highway Patrol In December, the Patrol’s eight full time filmed numerous reenactments involv - motor vehicle inspectors each received ing Montana Highway Patrol officers. 1996, Officer Steve Wisniewski. lap top computers for field use. Sergeant The 34th recruit academy was held at Janet Baker was promoted to lieutenant MLEA in Bozeman. In November, the In 1996, there were 198 highway on October 29 and was stationed in Butte, Patrol saw its first increase in manpow - fatalities, and in February, Patrol offi - then Billings. er since 1973, with federal funding of ten cers assisted local and federal law enforce - In 1995, black Ford Crown Victoria new officers, boosting the number from ment with road blocks and perimeter patrol cars with white roofs and door pil - 202 to 212. In December, Montana revert - control in a standoff with a group of lars and a new striping design to match ed to the “basic rule” to manage daytime Freemen near Jordan. Officers from

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around Montana rotated in over 81 days, subsequently dropped. The Patrol also at which time the standoff ended peace - completely phased out the previous fully. Since 1978, Patrol headquarters Winchester 12 gauge pump shotgun and had been located at 303 North Roberts, fully converted to the Remington 870. the Scott Hart building. In March, head - Black and white Ford Crown Victorias quarters moved to a new location at 2550 were again distributed as patrol cars. Prospect Avenue in Helena. The Mon - On June 28, Officer Tom Hamilton was tana Accident Records System (MARS) wounded when he attempted to assist was first initiated and was the first com - in the capture of 38 year old David Mor - puterized version of the Montana Acci - 1997 Ford. gan, who was wanted for the attempt - dent Investigator’s Report (HQ 1599). ed murder of two deputies from Koote - The LAN system was also completed, nai County, Idaho. While Morgan was which linked all district offices. In April, evading Ravalli County deputies on a train carrying hazardous materials Highway 93, Officer Hamilton man - derailed near Alberton, which closed aged to deploy his Stop Sticks and pur - for 17 days and forced the sue the suspect when he bailed from evacuation of 1,500 people from the sur - his vehicle and hid near a local store. rounding area. Patrol officers from When Officer Hamilton arrived, the around Montana logged 2,200 hours of suspect opened fire with a 7mm mag - service in the area over an 18 day peri - 1997 Dodge. num rifle. Despite being wounded in od. The Montana Law Enforcement gency lights. Approximately one car the right arm and side, Officer Hamil - Academy moved from Bozeman to the per district was equipped as a “slick ton was able to take cover and return former Mountain View School campus top” or with internally mounted emer - fire, eventually wounding Morgan, who near Helena in July. The 35th recruit gency lights. On August 28, the law was also armed with a 9mm handgun. academy was held at the new MLEA enforcement memorial was dedicated Morgan subsequently pled guilty to facility. Black and white Ford Crown on the capitol grounds. Just after 2200 attempted murder in Montana and was Victorias were again issued, but only hours on October 4, Officer Debra Bat - sentenced to the Montana State Prison. the roof of the car was white, with the terson was struck by a passing truck Officer Hamilton returned to duty on remainder black. The previous design while conducting a traffic stop on Inter - September 11. The 36th recruit acad - had the roof and all door posts painted state 90 in Mineral County. The male emy was held at MLEA near Helena, white. The graphics remained the same. driver from Superior had just reached and in December the Montana Supreme The Highway Patrol took possession of down to pick up a drink and drifted Court ruled the “basic rule” as written two surplus Department of Defense Bell right, striking Officer Batterson and her was unconstitutionally vague. How - OH-58a helicopters, the military version car. Sadly, Officer Batterson was unable ever, the court also reaffirmed the abil - of the Jet Ranger, one to be flown, and to return to full-time duty as a patrol ity of officers to regulate speed using the other to be used for parts. The APU officer due to the injuries she received. the careless and reckless driving statutes. was no longer was a permanent duty On October 25th, Mike Frellick was Sergeant Larry Strickland retired, and station, but rather one officer per dis - promoted from lieutenant in Great Falls the APU ceased formal operations. trict was selected to go on rotating, tem - to captain in Missoula. In 1999, there were 220 fatalities, porary duty assignments with the unit, In 1998, the number of fatalities and Patrol officers were driving all black which was commanded by the same dropped to 237. In January, District 2 and white vehicles, predominantly Ford sergeant, Larry Strickland. headquarters moved into the Cascade Crown Victoria Police Interceptors. One In 1997, there were an alarming County Regional Detention Center and Chevrolet Tahoe, a two wheel drive sport 256 fatalities, and the Highway Patrol Correctional Facility along with the Cas - utility vehicle, was purchased in June unveiled its own flag, which was blue cade County Sheriff’s Office. District more ® and gold. The current shoulder patch 6 in Kalispell was formed on April 1, adorned the center, with four stars along and the District 4 headquarters in Billings the top, in tribute to our fallen officers. moved to a new consolidated office The MHP lost the funding for seven of building at 615 A. South 27th Street the ten positions gained in 1995, drop - along with other Department of Justice ping the number of officers to 205. The divisions after previously being house fleet of patrol cars was now all black at the DOT yard at 424 Morey. District and white, with approximately 1/3 of 3 also gained a new detachment office the fleet turned over every year since in Three Forks. In May, the Patrol began 1995. At that time, most patrol cars to experiment with and evaluate ten were equipped with top mounted emer - hour shifts for its officers, which were 1999 Chevrolet Tahoe.

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one per detachment. The PR-24 side handle baton was still in use, but offi - cers were authorized to carry an ASP expandable baton also, if the officer received training and purchased the new baton at his or her own expense. The 38th recruit academy was held at MLEA near Helena. 60% of the Patrol had less than ten years of service. Since 1974, Montana had a 25% increase in population, and vehicle registrations were up 33%. District 7 in Belgrade was established on November 1, which was housed in the new Belgrade City Hall. District 1 in Missoula moved into a new facility, and Detachment 424 was added in Billings. The Rainbow Fami - ly gathered in District 1 in June, and the Patrol dedicated additional officers from around Montana to help police the activity in the area. The Patrol heli - copter was also utilized in its first ever Trooper Tamra Winchell (MHP 221) on a traffic stop near Hamilton on June 18, 2009. Photo by law enforcement mission. The Hell’s Clarke Sutphin. Angels’ motorcycle club conducted a meeting in Missoula from July 24 through and assigned to Officer Ed Hilbert, then himself. The 37th recruit academy was July 30, and Patrol officers assisted in Officer Steve Lavin. The Patrol heli - held at MLEA near Helena. The MARS a combined effort with city, county, and copter was first used in an official capac - rover portable computer program was federal officers to monitor area activi - ity to assist in the maintenance of remote fully implemented in July, allowing offi - ty. The Highway Patrol again furnished repeater sites. On June 25, Colonel Bert cers to enter crash data on a lap top com - the use of its helicopter, and many other Obert replaced Colonel Craig Reap as puter. A new District 1 headquarters in officers from Montana police depart - the Chief Administrator of the Patrol. Missoula was in the works. In Decem - ments. Utah, and Idaho also contributed The legislature responded to the Supreme ber, a new use of force in service train - officers. Annual events such as the Tes - Court’s December of 1998 ruling and ing program was implemented which tical Festival involved officers from Dis - passed a numerical speed limit which focused on weaponless defense and trict 1 and 3, as well as forest fire duty. took effect on May 28. The new statute firearms training. Officer Steve Wisniewski received the established a 75 mph speed limit on the In 2000, there were 237 fatalities, Medal of Valor for his part disarming interstate, except in urban areas where and in February officers switched from an armed male in Big Horn County. it was 65 mph. On two lane highways, a nine hour work day to an eight hour Lieutenant Janet Baker was promoted the limit was placed at 70 mph during work day. Officers had previously been to captain in Butte on November 18, the daytime and 65 mph at night, except granted two twenty minute breaks along being the first female officer to attain on US Highway 93 in western Montana with a one hour unpaid lunch hour, the rank of captain. With her promo - where the limit was set at 65 mph day encompassing a total nine hour shift. tion, there were no longer assistant dis - or night. The legislature also specifi - The new eight hour shift consisted of trict commanders and no lieutenants. cally granted Patrol officers a 9% pay only one 45 minute paid lunch break, In 2001, Attorney General Mike increase in an effort to bring Patrol offi - encompassing a total eight hour shift. McGrath took office in January, and cers closer to the average pay for law Officers were mostly assigned Ford Colonel Bert Obert continued as chief enforcement officers in Montana. In Crown Victoria patrol vehicles, but six administrator of the Highway Patrol. past years, Patrol officers’ pay had fall - front wheel drive Chevrolet Impalas There were 237 fatalities in 203 fatal en below average, and one of the results were also purchased, which required crashes. Sergeants were issued lap top was an inability to recruit and retain new patrol vehicle operations training computers, continuing an increase in new officers. Officer Randy Owens was for those officers. The Chevrolets had computer use from 1995. The Patrol awarded the Medal of Valor for his May the same black and white color scheme began to adopt the ASP expandable baton, 21 foot pursuit of a male shooting sus - and striping but lacked the door crest establishing instructors and purchasing pect in Pablo (Lake County), in which or patch. The number of “slick top” the baton for officers. A large number the suspect subsequently fatally shot cars was increased to approximately of Ford Crown Victoria patrol cars were

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again purchased, but 12 additional front and placed on all patrol cars. This includ - the summer, prior to the distribution of wheel drive Chevrolet Impalas were also ed a red logo celebrating the Lewis and the new weapon. Shotgun barrels were acquired. The use of force in-service Clark Bicentennial. A maroon unmarked shortened to accommodate an over-the- training continued, with a progressive Crown Victoria was primarily stationed head shotgun mount which attached to approach to weaponless defense and in western Montana (Missoula), but trav - the cage. The 40th recruit academy firearms training. Officers participated eled the state as needed to curb viola - expanded to 15 weeks in duration. In in realistic scenarios, including those uti - tions such as bad passes. The mobile October, Colonel Obert selected Sgt. lizing simmunitions training. Mobile data data terminal project was running in Tooley as the new captain in Belgrade. Billings and Missoula. Officers were Colonel Obert retired to take a federal able to complete crash reports, daily security position at the airport in Bel - logs, and maintenance logs on the in- grade. Lieutenant Colonel Shawn Driscoll car computer, as well as search driver was promoted to colonel by Attorney and vehicle records. Officer Rocky Bai - General Mike McGrath. Colonel Driscoll ley’s patrol car was struck during a night - amended the uniform policy and no time traffic stop on March 29. He was longer mandated the wearing of long completing a warning with his over - sleeve winter weight uniform shirts and head lights activated when a 1990 Ford ties. Officers were given the choice of Econoline van side-swiped his patrol wearing a short sleeve summer, long 2001 Chevrolet Impala. car, which caused injury to Officer Bai - sleeve summer, or long sleeve winter ley. The driver of the van did not imme - shirt with tie, except when the Ike jack - terminals in patrol cars continued to be diately stop, but drove another 200 yards, et was worn, which mandated a tie. explored on a trial basis. The 39th recruit stopping briefly, then drove away. The Turtlenecks were explored as an alter - academy was again held at MLEA near driver and his attorney later contacted native uniform item. In November, Helena. In July, the automatic per diem and met with Sgt. Tom Hamilton and, Colonel Driscoll selected HQ Adminis - payment for meals was eliminated, and based on that interview, the driver was trative Captain Yaeger as the new Lieu - officers began to complete monthly expense charged with felony criminal endan - tenant Colonel. Captain Tooley took vouchers for daily meals. A Forward germent and leaving the scene of an the administrative captain’s position in Looking Infrared (FLIR) unit was secured injury crash. He was remanded on headquarters, and Sergeant Gary Beck - for the Patrol helicopter, enhancing its $25,000 bond. New pistols were select - er was subsequently promoted to cap - night operation capability. The Patrol ed to replace the current Smith and Wes - tain in Belgrade. Also in November, helicopter was also painted black and son 9mm model 5903. The Sig-Sauer Colonel Driscoll requested an audit from white by Officer Tom Olds, similar to the .357 caliber semi-automatic pistol was the legislature addressing the retention patrol cars. The Patrol’s fixed wing air - the weapon of choice, with current of officers. The end result was that the craft, since 1983, had been used to stop instructors attending new training in more ® over 20,000 motorists, performed 110 emergency medical relays, completed 80 prisoner transports, and was used for many searches and surveillance opera - tions. It was also used for staff and Depart - ment of Justice personnel transportation, flying over 4,000 hours. In 2002, two full-time officers (orig - inally Sgt. Larry Irwin and Officer Mike Feldman) were assigned to the gover - nor’s office for dignitary protection duties. The funding for the executive protection section came from the gov - ernor’s office. Officers were initially uniformed, but transitioned into plain clothes. New 2002 patrol cars were the Ford Crown Victoria (rear wheel drive) and the Dodge Intrepid (front wheel drive). The color scheme was the same black and white, but the striping was modified to match the new Lewis and On June 18, 2009, Troopers Tamra Winchell (MHP 221) and Chris Hamilton (MHP 292) investi - Clark style license plates recently issued gate a crash near Hamilton. Photo by Clarke Sutphin.

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gear. Initially, the command staff was issued felt hats and officers straw hats. Eventually, all were issued straw hats. In June, officers were selected for train - ing in crowd and riot control situations. Newly formed, the group was called the Special Events Support Unit (SESU). In July, officers were all issued turtlenecks following a trial period in the winter of 2002-2003. The tie policy remained changed as being non-mandatory. Offi - cers had previously been mandated to wear the long sleeve winter shirt with tie from November 1st through March 31st. In August, Officer Jason Hilden - stab was involved in a shootout near Lolo with an Ennis murder suspect. The sus - pect subsequently pled guilty to charges in exchange for a life sentence, rather than the possible death penalty. In Sep - tember, the new Sig-Sauer .357 semiau - tomatic pistol was being upgraded and Trooper David Gleich (MHP 216) responding to a call on October 19, 2009. Photo by Clarke Sutphin. new pistols being issued, with the only difference being the ability to mount Patrol was losing officers to other agen - and AMHP asked for elimination of vacan - laser sites on the new pistols. The in- cies over pay issues. cy savings (which would increase the car video was in the process of being In 2003, new cars ordered were: 33 Patrol by 15 officers each year), an increase moved to an up front passenger com - Ford Crown Victorias, 20 Chevrolet in the staff of the MHP by 100 officers, partment mount in an 8mm form, as was Impalas, and 10 Dodge Intrepids, all and to take the MHP out of the state pay the M-14, with a possible collapsible black with gold striping and a smaller plan and by law place it in a pay rate stock. Thirty-three 2003 Chevrolet Impala door crest. New Kenwood radios were that was the average of the sheriff’s offices patrol cars were received for issuance in issued, both as portables and in car radios. where the Patrol had each of its district 2004, along with 30 Ford Crown Victo - Two more unmarked cars were ordered, offices, which was forecast to lead to an rias (no Dodge). The Chevrolet was a including one blue and one gold. The increase of 40%. The reasoning behind front wheel drive V-6, and the Ford and maroon car was moved to Billings, the that was that 90% of all Patrol officers rear wheel drive V-8. Colonel Driscoll blue was used in Missoula, and the gold lived within 50 miles of the district offices, formed a sergeant’s working group to in Great Falls. Four ten hour shifts were and it was felt that Patrol officers should explore labor issues specific to sergeants. being considered. In January, the MHP be paid 100% of the average of their cor - The Fatal Incident Reconstruction Sup - began to utilize a new officer evaluation responding counterparts. In essence, it system based loosely on the current FTO was felt that if Patrol officers were paid evaluation system. This was meant to a fair and average wage, the retention make the process more objective, empha - issues would cease, and it would be a size the overall work performance, and long term fix. In March, the 41st acad - make less weighty the number of DUI, emy was now sixteen weeks in total, citations, and warnings. Rather than with no night classes and thirteen recruits DUI, a new category was added which in attendance. Seven of twenty nine offi - added DUI, MIP driving .02 and CMV cers in the National Guard were called driving .04 into one alcohol related dri - to active military duty due to the war in ving offense category. As a part of the Iraq. This included Jeremy Lee in Billings, first long range, strategic plan to solve two officers from Bozeman, one from the Patrol’s retention and pay issues, the Livingston, and one from Deer Lodge. MHP and the AMHP asked the 2003 leg - In April, officers were being measured islature for a bi-partisan committee to for campaign hats to replace the tradi - study the officer retention issue and make tional uniform hat. Previously only honor a recommendation to the 2005 legisla - guard members and academy camp com - ture. In quarterly meetings, the MHP manders had been approved for the head - MHP hat piece.

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port Team (FIRST) continued to meet and develop, with equipped vans later being supplied for response in each dis - trict. An agreement between the labor union and management enabled officers to begin working a four ten hour shift schedule in January of 2004, statewide. A sergeant’s FTO program was being developed by Sgt. Butch Huseby for new sergeants following promotion. The colonel began evaluating the need for an 8th district, taken from parts of Districts 2 and 5, along the hi-line, with Havre being mentioned as the district head - quarters. The CAD system was running in the Helena dispatch center. The unmarked car program was expanded to include one car in each district. Cap - The MHP's helicopter and three Dodge Charger patrol cars are pictured on April 26, 2007. tain Janet Baker retired on August 8th. Photo by Clarke Sutphin. MHP officers began working off duty on a voluntary basis as escorts for the district boundaries had not yet been of administrative captain at HQ, replac - football coach formed. The unmarked car program was ing Captain Tom Hamilton, who trans - during games as a promotional and recruit - scaled back, due to concerns raised by ferred back to Missoula upon the retire - ment tool. A similar offer was made to citizens and legislators. The adminis - ment of Captain Mike Frellick. In April, Montana State University, but the offer tration desired alternately to focus its with great effort on the part of many was initially declined, although it did efforts on the pay and manpower issues people, HB 35 was introduced and passed become a reality in 2007. and assigned the cars to each district by the legislature, which set a standard In January of 2004, officers and commander. The cars were still avail - of pay for new troopers at an average of sergeants alike began to work a four ten able for specific, defined events or needs. the eight sheriff’s departments where hour shift schedule, four days on and In April, the Missoula dispatch center the Patrol had district offices. This would three days off, with set days off. This had recently been closed and absorbed be funded by a $5 fee added to every initially included a two week rotation of into Helena, and the Billings dispatch vehicle registration and would take effect straight day shifts, then two weeks of center was scaling back. Helena began in July of 2006, after a new salary sur - straight night shifts, statewide. In Feb - to dispatch the Glendive district and the vey. The starting pay for a trooper was ruary, Colonel Shawn Driscoll resigned Billings district overnight. In July, Colonel thought to be increasing from $12.90 an to take a position with Swift Trucking in Randy Yaeger retired, and Captain Paul hour to approximately $17.40 an hour Phoenix, Arizona. Lt. Colonel Randy Grimstad was selected by Attorney Gen - as a result. Legislation also removed Yaeger was promoted to Colonel on Feb - eral Mike McGrath to be the next chief the Patrol from vacancy savings and ruary 2, 2004, and Captain Mike Tooley of the Montana Highway Patrol. In Sep - transferred our Motor Carriers Services was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel on tember, Sergeant Butch Huseby was pro - more ® February 7, 2004. Captain Paul Grim - moted to captain, at first being assigned stad moved from District 7 (Belgrade) to to headquarters as the administrative the administrative captain’s position in captain, then assuming command of the Headquarters. In March, officers were new District 8 in Havre in October. Dis - testing and evaluating laser sights and trict supervisors gained access to the dis - tactical flashlights for the Sig-Sauer .357. patch CAD system via the internet. In Sergeants and above were being issued October, dispatch was consolidated into black leather jackets in place of the pre - Helena, and District 8 in Havre was estab - vious green tanker jacket. MHP admin - lished. With dispatch consolidated in istration was heavily engaged in efforts Helena, the rank of lieutenant and assis - to obtain more pay and more officers for tant district commander was no longer the Patrol from the upcoming 2005 leg - in use. Tom Hamilton was promoted to islature. The 2004 recruit academy began administrative captain in HQ. In Novem - with thirteen cadets, five of whom were ber, Captain Mike Frellick retired. female. The 8th District was rumored In January of 2005, Sergeant Clan - Many of the original badges from 1935 were to be becoming a reality in Shelby, although cy King was promoted to the position still in use some 70 years later.

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Left to right: Trooper David A. Graham, Trooper Evan F. Schneider and Trooper Michael W. Haynes. Photos by Burch's One Hour Photo in Kalispell.

Bureau to the Department of Trans - cars in 2005 were Ford Crown Victorias In 2006, all cars had trooper decals portation. Black stocking caps with the (RWD) and Chevrolet Impalas (FWD). placed on the front fenders. A limited arrowhead sewn in were distributed as They continued with an all black color number of cars had state trooper decals an acceptable piece of headgear. Since and gold striping. Reflective cross hatch - placed on the tops of their windshields. 1935, badges had read “Patrolman,” and ing was added to the rear bumper for Supervisors received light weight black many of the original badges from 1935 safety. Three cars in each district were jackets with flaps which read “State were still in use some 70 years later, given “Trooper” decals to add to the front Trooper,” and troops received black 511 even after female officers had joined the fenders. The decal was black and was brand jackets with a zip-out insulated ranks of the Patrol in 1978. Some new applied on the gold striping. The liner, which also had flaps which read badges had been ordered which read unmarked cars had been assigned to the “State Trooper.” The Jet Strobe light bar the more gender neutral title of “Patrol district captains, but each captain was had mostly been phased out in favor of Officer,” and in May, Colonel Grimstad now receiving a black car, with the col - the new Whelen light bar. The new light announced that rather than “Patrol Offi - ored versions being returned to regular bar was clear and low profile, with LED cer,” new badges would read “Trooper.” service amongst the troops. Safety spot lighting. Motorcycles had been con - Those with over 20 years of service had checks were mandated on a monthly sidered, but were placed on hold. Laser the option of buying their badge. Vacan - basis for districts. Troopers were receiv - speed detection was being evaluated for cy announcements and DOJ ID cards ing state e-mail addresses, which had limited use. 2006 in car cameras were were now listed as “Trooper” rather than previously been only given to supervi - digital. With some initial difficulties, “Patrol Officer.” The AMHP board voted sors and civilian personnel. Emphasis the new units proved to be highly effec - to change its name to the Association of was placed on tracking of daily activi - tive. Troopers each received state issued Montana Troopers (AMT), pending a ty, in particular stops per hour of non- cell phones. Digital cameras were issued, membership vote, which subsequently obligated patrol time, with a target of at replacing 35 mm, and photos were sub- passed. In June, folding M-14 stocks least one stop per hour. In August, the were recalled due to safety concerns, trooper decal was increased to approx - with some collapsing during firing. Shot - imately 6 cars per district. In October, gun barrels that had been shortened to captains and above were re-issued solid accommodate the small patrol cars and green short sleeve shirts, with additional overhead mounts were being phased stock on order for sergeants and below. back out in favor of longer, stock bar - In November, sergeant decals were added rels. In-car video was being returned to the front fenders. Reflective cross to VHS. The SESU was wearing solid hatching decals were also distributed green shirts and BDU style pants. A for older patrol cars, matching the newer new Whelen light bar was being evalu - issued cars. Captain David Dill retired ated, which was low, square, and had on December 30th, after which Captain clear lenses. The LED lights contained Keith Edgell transferred from Belgrade The Mobile Impaired Driving Assessment within provided excellent visibility. New to Billings. Center (MIDAC).

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mitted to crash records on CD’s. Super - days on and 6 days off and consisted of occurred on March 23rd, when his patrol visors received digital voice recorders one sergeant and five troopers. The squad vehicle was struck head on by an intox - for documentation purposes and inter - commander drove a Dodge Magnum sta - icated driver traveling the wrong way views. Troopers were issued dark green tion wagon. A different in car camera on US Highway 93 near Kalispell. In shirts of all varieties. The uniform pol - was being tested, the ICOP system, which June, Captain Tom Butler was promot - icy remained loose in that troopers may recorded all data to a hard drive and later ed to major and became the new admin - generally choose whether to wear a short a server for long term storage. This sys - istrative support commander in head - sleeve shirt, long sleeve summer, or long tem, like Watchguard, recorded contin - quarters. Patrol cars were a mix of Ford sleeve winter with a tie or turtleneck. uously to a hard drive. In September, Crown Victorias, Chevrolet Impalas, Black winter stocking caps were issued after years in the planning and testing in and Dodge Chargers, with one Dodge with the arrowhead logo. On October the communications center, the MHP Magnum. Dark green t-shirts were 25th, the rank of lieutenant was brought went live state-wide with its new com - authorized as a uniform item, and util - back, with the promotion of Sergeant puter aided dispatch and records man - ity pants were authorized for wear on Mike Reddick to lieutenant and assis - agement system, made by CTS America a daily basis, except in combination with tant operations commander. of Florida. Similar to a system used by a long sleeve winter shirt and tie, which In 2007, new Ford Crown Victoria, the , the system required traditional uniform pants. Chevrolet Impala, and Dodge Charger is multi-faceted. On August 26th, Troop - In 2010, all new patrol cars were patrol cars came equipped with a built er Evan F. Schneider died as a result of Chevrolet Impalas, and they sported a in center console to house electronics. a traffic crash when another vehicle dri - new graphics design, which in part cel - New digital Watchguard in car cameras ven by an impaired driver struck his ebrated the 75th anniversary of the Mon - were phased in which wrote video to patrol car head on near Columbia Falls. tana Highway Patrol. In addition, thanks DVD’s, which proved to be somewhat Each trooper was issued a portable Itron - to Major Tom Butler who spearheaded problematic. In June, Rock River Arms ix laptop with a printer and driver license the project, AMT members were able to .223 caliber rifles were being obtained scanner in their patrol car. Each laptop purchase at their own expense, 75th and M-14’s were to be largely phased was broadband wireless internet enabled anniversary badges to be worn only dur - out, except for a small number retained and tracked via GPS. Troopers then had ing 2010. Previously, troopers at the rank in each district for long-range or cere - access to a state-wide messaging and map - of sergeant and above did not have their monial purposes. Utility uniforms (wash ping system, enabling them to view all badge number reflected on the face of and wear) were being issued to all troop - cars and calls across the state, access their badge, just rank. The anniversary ers for certain duties, the same as issued CJIN-NCIC, issue electronic citations, badges, however, were printed with both previously to SESU members. All cars scan driver licenses, import CJIN and dri - badge number and rank. In addition, had received state trooper windshield ver returns into citations and crash reports, thanks to Trooper Lath Keith who coor - decals. In late July, the Mobile Impaired and write crash reports in a new man - dinated the project, AMT members had Driving Assessment Center (MIDAC) was ner. The system also incorporated arrest the opportunity to purchase a limited first used, processing impaired drivers in reports (probable cause affidavits) and edition, specially engraved Smith and a mobile DUI processing center. In Sep - offense reports (pre-trial summaries), as Wesson .38 caliber revolver, similar to tember, older Motorola mobile data ter - well as a master name index, so troop - that which was carried in 1935. A new minals were being phased out and new ers could view a history of any subject black and white 75th anniversary license General Dynamics Itronix dockable lap or vehicle the MHP had previously had plate was also issued for patrol cars. K top computers with Verizon broadband contact with in real time. In November, wireless internet capabilities were being Attorney General Mike McGrath was *Editor’s note: This article was a phased in. Digital in car and portable elected as the chief justice of the Mon - compilation of many works and sources. radios were being phased in. On Octo - tana Supreme Court, and Steve Bullock Thanks to Max Blakesley, Steve Apgar, ber 9th, Trooper David A. Graham died was elected as the new Montana Attor - Herb Baker, Warren Meade, Lee Graves, in a traffic crash near Kalispell when a ney General. In December, Colonel Paul Keith Edgerton, Bryan Adams, Dutch distracted driver crossed into his lane and Grimstad announced his retirement, effec - Meyer, Kristi Skaalure, Mike Tooley, struck his unmarked patrol car head on. tive December 31, 2008. Shawn Driscoll, Tom Butler, Larry Irwin, In 2008, the roving enforcement In January of 2009, Lieutenant Keith Edgell, Chris Costello, Brad Sangray, squad was initiated again, due to a two Colonel Mike Tooley was selected by and Scott Ayers for their contributions year grant from the federal government. as the new chief of the Montana High - and assistance compiling and verifying The Strategic Traffic Enforcement Team way Patrol. In February, Captain Butch this information. In addition, thanks to (STET) was commanded by Sgt. Pete Huseby was selected as the new lieu - the Montana Highway Patrol, the Mon - Richardson and patrolled the most dan - tenant colonel or deputy chief of the tana Historical Society, and photogra - gerous portions of the state, based on Montana Highway Patrol. On March phers L. H. Jorud and Clarke Sutphin crash statistics. A laser unit was used for 27th, Trooper Michael W. Haynes died for supplying many of the numerous speed estimation. The squad worked 10 as a result of a traffic crash which had photographs used in this story.

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Editor’s Comments

Guy Gear, Panasonic, 5.11, Nomad, Crim- to attend the National Police Week cere- son Trace, Stalker, Wilson Arms, Coop- monies in Washington, D.C. Tawny, Taryn, er Firearms, BKBH, Sparta Promotions, Elias, and their family and friends, along Sig Sauer, Smith and Wesson, PLEA, Black- with trooper escorts Dustin LeRette and hawk, and Danner, as well as many states Lacie Alby toured the capitol and took that contributed extra funds. part in ceremonies honoring Montana The highlight of the event for many Highway Patrol Trooper Michael Haynes, Sgt. Scott Ayers was a helicopter ride over Glacier Nation- to whom we will be forever grateful. Editor al Park, thanks to Glacier Heli Tours. As we close out 2010 and the 75th Montana Trooper Thanks to everyone for your assis- anniversary of the Montana Highway In April, the AMT hosted the Nation- tance and for coming. We hope you all Patrol, we honor our past, cherish our al Trooper’s Coalition spring 2010 con- had a great time. present, and look forward to the future. ference at the beautiful Grouse Moun- In May, the AMT was honored to Until the next issue, be safe. K tain Lodge in Whitefish, with troopers sponsor the Haynes family and their trip from all over the nation in attendance. AMT President Art Collins and Vice President Lath Keith worked tirelessly Submission Guidelines should be at least 5.1 megapixels for to organize the event, and all the AMT black and white reproduction and at board members and their significant Montana Trooper welcomes con- least 7.0 megapixels for color repro- others in attendance worked long hours tributions in the form of articles and duction. to help staff the event. photographs with captions. Photos meant for the cover are Thanks go out to Attorney Gener- Articles should be submitted in best displayed when taken vertically, al Steve Bullock for being our keynote Word and in both upper and lower as opposed to horizontal. speaker, Colonel Mike Tooley for speak- case, not all caps. The editor reserves Please indicate if you wish for ing at the opening ceremonies, the Honor the right to edit the text as per con- your photo(s) and/or CD to be returned. Guard for their participation in the open- tent and length in consideration of Each photo should have an accom- ing ceremonies, and to Mark Taylor, the style of this publication. Articles panying description or caption. Tom Bivens, and Captain Clancy King may be submitted either on a CD or Please do not imbed photos with- for each presenting workshops. via electronic mail. in articles, but rather send text and Special thanks also go out to all of Hard copy photos, digital JPEG JPEG photos as a part of separate files. our very generous sponsors who helped photos on CD, or digital JPEG pho- Send submissions and all other make the conference a reality, which tos via electronic mail may be sent. correspondence to: Scott Ayers, 1013 includes CTS-America, GM, On Star, All photographs should be of the high- Babcock Blvd., Billings, MT 59105 or Leupold, McKnight Companies, Fidelity est possible quality and, if digital, e-mail them to [email protected]. Blue Line Mortgage, Midwest Stitch, Cool

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Montana Trooper

President’s Message

would also like to express my deepest grat- before, we will remain vigilant and ready itude to Lath Keith, who did most of the to fight the good fight if necessary. fundraising and to Scott Ayers, who did In the past couple of years, I have just about everything else. Last, but not become much more involved with the least, thank you to Grouse Mountain Lodge Montana Hope Project. I must report for your outstanding support and profes- that it has been a great experience. I sional staff services. have met some very incredible people, Sgt. Art Collins By the time you all read this, it will both people who support the project and President be fall, and we will be gearing up for the those who benefit from the project. I AMT next legislative session. I promise you that can assure you that the Hope Project is The last time I wrote to you all, it was we will continue to be vigilant on the polit- in very capable hands right now as Richard winter, and we were starting to get serious ical front and ready to defend the hard Hader works tirelessly to ensure its mis- about getting some work done for the fought for benefits we now enjoy. How- sion is carried out and its reputation upcoming NTC Conference. Well, at the ever, make no mistake about how impor- remains intact. I ask each of you to do end of April the conference was held in tant your role is in this process. It is vital yourself a favor and get involved in this Whitefish. By all accounts, it was a com- that you make contact with your legisla- worthwhile project. Fundraising is a plete success. I would like to take this time tors. It is equally important that they hear constant with the Hope Project. How- to thank all you who participated and helped the same message from all of us. By this ever, we hope to someday be in a finan- out. Specifically, I would like to thank the fall, everyone should receive a letter with cial situation where we never have to Honor Guard, the AMT Board of Direc- talking points for these contacts. Please ask for help again. We are about halfway tors and family members who volunteered, do your best to stick to these points. We there after only 25 years, and we are and all the troops in District 6 who dropped are most likely to accomplish our goals if picking up steam all the time. We expect whatever they were doing to help out when- we present ourselves as a unit. We antic- to reach our goal much quicker than ever they were called upon (your kindness ipate a difficult session. As you are all another 25 years. You can also help by was noted by the NTC President). Addi- probably aware, the state is looking at constantly listening and looking for chil- tionally, I greatly appreciate Attorney Gen- about a $400 million deficit for the next dren whom we can serve. If we run out eral Bullock for making the drive up just biennium. Additionally, there are sever- of children to grant wishes to, then we to speak to the attendees. Our many spon- al other retirement systems in the state no longer have a reason to have the Hope sors also deserve a big hand. Without them, that are upside down again. This means Project around. So please, if you know hosting a national meeting could not have there is a good chance that when they start of any children who may be deserving happened without significant cost to our looking at retirement systems, ours may of having a wish granted, contact Richard association. A special thank you goes out be up for a little tinkering. Obviously, we or your local Hope Project Coordinator. to Colonel Tooley and Lieutenant Colonel don’t want this to happen. We have been Until next time, be safe, and as Huseby. The support they provided for successful in the past in stopping any Murph up in supply always says, “Be this endeavor was vital to its success. I affronts to our retirement system. As I said blessed.” K

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From the Attorney General 75 Years: A History to be Truly Proud of

joined Col. Tooley in addressing the and City Judge, the area’s District Court crowd gathered to honor the Patrol. Judges and the Highway Patrol. The Patrol was created in response Based on South Dakota’s 24/7 pro- to our state leading the country with gram, we require as a condition of bond a 74% increase in highway fatalities. that defendants totally abstain from the In the 75 years since then, the gener- consumption of alcohol. And they have ations of men and women who have to prove it by showing up twice a day, served as Patrol troopers have dedi- every day, between 7- 9 a.m. and 7-9 Montana cated their lives to the public safety p.m., and blowing a clean breath test. Attorney General mission for which this organization If they don’t, they go straight to jail and Steve Bullock was created. That is something of which wait to see a judge. This May, I was honored to partic- to be truly proud. Early this summer, we had six repeat ipate in the Montana Highway Patrol’s In the first decade of the 21st Cen- DUI offenders in the program. By start- 75th Anniversary celebration. Although tury, Montana has again led the nation ing small, we can work out any glitch- it was a rainy morning, the sun broke in highway fatalities, but this time in es before we include a statewide 24/7 through just as Governor Schweitzer the number of deaths caused by drink- Sobriety Program in the larger DUI noted that Montana’s Patrol troopers ing and driving. In response, this past package we will propose to the 2011 are among the most highly respected May we launched a 24/7 Sobriety pilot Legislature. I’m hopeful that, when it of any profession in the state. Senator program in Helena. The pilot is the comes to highway safety, the legislators , whose grandfather Frank result of a collaborative effort between who meet in Helena next year will Cooney was governor when the Patrol my office, Lewis & Clark County, the respond with the same foresight their was initially created in 1935, and I also City of Helena, the Justice of the Peace counterparts showed in 1935. K

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Colonel’s Message

or leaving positions unfilled. The Mass- work to be done. I encourage the mem- achusetts for example has bers of the association to continue to not held a recruit academy for four years, monitor issues of importance to them and has 400 unfilled positions. and contribute to the discussion. It is Here at home, the Attorney Gen- more critical than ever to be a part of eral has included in his executive pro- the debate and to make sure your story posals an increase of nine uniformed is told effectively. MHP positions. This supports the AG’s In conclusion, I would like to con- safe communities initiative by increas- gratulate the association for a very suc- Colonel ing public safety through a consistent cessful National Trooper’s Coalition Mike Tooley and visible presence of MHP troopers conference in Whitefish. I heard As you read this magazine, we are throughout our state. absolutely nothing but rave reviews approaching the fall of 2010. I remem- Experience has taught us that a vis- over the choice of the location, the hos- ber that at this time last year, we had ible, active force reduces death and pitality, and the AMT members who just finished a legislative session and injury on our highways. What we are were on hand to assist the delegates. were planning our 75th anniversary learning through our collaborations with It made me proud to see our associa- celebrations. other state and national law enforce- tion show what it was capable of doing Now those celebrations are behind ment groups is that the same visibility on a national level. Well done! You us, and another legislative session looms. helps to reduce all crimes. Safe com- set the bar very high for the hosts of While I anticipate that the 2011 ses- munities are a major component of eco- the next NTC conference. sion will be one of the more difficult nomic recovery, and the MHP plays an Until next time, be safe in your trav- of my tenure, I am comforted with the important part in that. We always have. els or activities, and thank you for all knowledge that the relationships that Even though we know that the that you do to support the patrol and the patrol has established will be help- patrol and the members of the associ- improve public safety in Montana. K ful. The work that the AMT and oth- ation do important work and have estab- ers have done to foster those relation- lished great relationships, there is still ships becomes even more important in tough times. We have seen our share of tough times during our history. While I was preparing remarks for the 75th anniver- sary celebration, it struck me how 2010 is a reflection of 1935. In 1935 the world was struggling to emerge from the Great Depression, and unemploy- ment in the hovered around twenty percent. There were rumors of war that were going to be realized in just a few short years. Today, we struggle with the current economic downturn, war, and uncer- tainty. The more things change, the more they stay the same. And that makes what the MHP does even more important. Thanks to the hard work that the AMT has done in the past, we are in a position to maintain or increase our field forces when other pub- lic safety agencies are laying people off

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In UnIform

Highway Patrol as a member of the Rocky Mountain Highway Patrol Crim - inal Interdiction Team. This team con - cept of drug interdiction is exemplified by Trooper Amundson working close - ly with other agencies to stem the flow of dangerous drugs and identify other illegal acts. He is a model trooper and has a skill set that consistently has led to apprehending fugitives, recovering On May 20, 2010, the Montana stolen vehicles, confiscating illegal drugs Highway Patrol celebrated its 75th and weapons, cooperating with all anniversary with open house events at enforcement task forces, and sharing headquarters and all district offices intelligence with partner law enforce - across the state. Pictured at the head - ment agencies at the national, state, and quarters event from the left are Chap - local levels. lin Lowell Anderson, Attorney Gener - For these reasons, Trooper Amund - al Steve Bullock, Governor Brian son was selected as the Montana Nar - Schweitzer and Colonel Mike Tooley. in confiscating 157425.87 grams of mar - cotics Officer of the Year for 2009, and ijuana, or 347.064 pounds, 39.44 grams he received this recognition at a banquet of methamphetamine or 1.39 ounces, held in Bozeman on March 11, 2010. 1 gram cocaine, 58 hydrocodone tablets, Congratulations Trooper Amundson! a 9mm handgun, $11,819.00 cash and $27,922.00 in U.S. Treasury checks. Trooper Amundson was able to remove well over 1 million dollars worth of ille - gal drugs destined to be distributed in the United States. Trooper Amundson has also been involved in numerous On May 16, 2010, retired Sergeant other successful drug interdiction efforts Herb Baker (1942 to 1975) celebrated in southwestern Montana. These nine his 95th birthday. Happy birthday Herb! significant seizures indicate the thor - oughness of Trooper Amundson’s work product, as well as the team work phi - On April 6, 2010, Trooper Tony losophy. Additionally, he had forty eight Beehler (MHP 172) was presented with misdemeanor drug arrests throughout the Billings Downtown Exchange Club the 2009 year. 52nd annual Officer of the Year for the The felony arrests were turned over Montana Highway Patrol. Also receiv - to the Missouri River Drug Task Force, ing awards were Deputy Blaine West - DEA and ICE for further investigation. on of the Yellowstone County Sheriff’s He also broke up a check cashing ring Office, as well as Officer Shane Winden from a traffic stop. The individuals of the Billings Police Department. As were from California and had been a token of their gratitude, the Exchange Trooper Amundson is assigned to cashing checks all over the country. Club gave each officer a Glock semi- the District VII Office, Bozeman, MT. The individuals had over 30 different automatic pistol in the caliber of their Trooper Amundson has been conduct - sources of fraudulent identification choice. Trooper Beehler is pictured with ing criminal interdiction efforts since cards. The case was turned over to the his brother Joe, mother Judy, father becoming a MHP Trooper in 2002. FBI and ICE. Richard, and his wife Bobbie. Con - In 2009, Trooper Amundson had Trooper Amundson’s participation gratulations Trooper Beehler! nine significant arrests which resulted is a key component for the Montana more ®

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Patrol. If you would like to send a card, the address is: David Rossi, 212 Gre - sham, Glendive, MT 59330. Blessed be the memory of Adele Jeanne Rossi.

Brown, who is buried at the Victor Cemetery.

Trooper Randy Schuelke (MHP 317) of Missoula received his five year ser - vice star from Colonel Tooley on May 27, 2010. office on May 19, 2010. Congratula - tions on your retirement Rodger!

Sergeant Pete Richardson and his family celebrated his son Andrew’s grad - uation from Barry University in Miami, on December 19, 2009. Andrew received his BS in Exercise Science and plans to continue post-graduate work in Chica - go, aiming for the medical industry. Andrew received the Dearborn Ranch scholarship for each of his four years, as did Price Richardson, who is also pic - Cade Henry Tuggle, age 7 and son of tured. Price graduated Cumberland Uni - Trooper Ross Tuggle, wanted to do a “cop versity with a degree in business admin - pickup,” complete with working lights istration in 2008. This benefit to troop - and siren (with which dad helped) for the ers is huge, and all troopers’ children Cub Scout pinewood derby in Scobey. Trooper Darlene Lee (MHP 231) of should take advantage of the generous Superior received her five year service scholarship offered to troopers’ and star from Colonel Tooley on May 27, 2010. game wardens’ children.

Sgt. Pete Richardson retired effec - tive July 14, 2010. He had most recent - ly been the STET commander. His dates of service were July 14, 1990, to July 14, 2010, and Sgt. Richardson retired with 20 years of service.

It is with great sadness that we report Retired Trooper David Rossi’s Each Memorial Day weekend, troop - 15-year-old daughter, Adele Rossi, died ers across Montana pay tribute to deceased in a tragic ATV accident in Glendive on troopers by posting flags and markers May 28, 2010. Many of you will remem - at their grave sites. Pictured are the ber Trooper Rossi (MHP 194), who was Trooper Tamra Winchell (MHP 221) memorials to John Driscoll, who is buried stationed in Glendive and retired in received her five year service star from at the Hamilton Cemetery, and Virgil 2006 after a 24 year career with the Colonel Tooley on May 27, 2010. K

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was just starting his morning route and Congratulations to Detachment 112, no kids were onboard. This crash was which received an award for the high - investigated by Trooper Chris Hamil - est DUI arrest average for 2009. Detach - ton with assistance from Captain Tom ment 112 averaged 30 DUI arrests per Hamilton, Trooper Lath Keith, and Troop - trooper for 2009. er Scott Bennett. ))) ))) On January 31, 2010, Trooper Dan Amundson stopped a rental vehicle that was speeding on Interstate 90 near mile - On February 7, 2010, Trooper Tony post 485. The two occupants were res - Beehler was investigating a crash on I- idents of North Dakota traveling from 90 at MM 479 when his patrol car was Washington to North Dakota, and the struck by another vehicle. Trooper trooper could detect the odor of mari - Beehler was seated in his car with a juana coming from the vehicle. The two civilian when the collision occurred. male occupants displayed other drug The impact was hard enough to cause trafficking indicators, and a K-9 was an injury after Trooper Beehler’s head deployed and hit on the vehicle. After to strike the door jamb. We are happy a search warrant was obtained, mari - to report that at this point his injury In this close call investigated by juana was found concealed in the third does not appear to be serious and the Trooper Michael Briggs, a motorist struck row seat area. The total seizure was civilian is also fine. This is yet anoth - a guardrail on Interstate 94 near Fallon, eight pounds of marijuana, along with er reminder to be extra careful out there. and the guardrail passed through the some hashish and $790 in currency. driver side rear and out the trunk, nar - ))) ))) rowly missing a passenger who was seated in the middle rear seat. )))

This spring, Trooper Cherie Lofton stopped a vehicle on a RADD report in the Bozeman I-90 rest area. The two men On January 14, 2010, a sheet of ice in the vehicle gave conflicting stories on the pavement contributed to this Trooper Michael Briggs submitted about their trip to see friends, and had school bus to sliding sideways off the this photo of a commercial vehicle fire, very little money and belongings for a road and rolling down a short rocky which took place on Interstate 94 near cross country trip. One explained, “We embankment at the south end of Mis - Glendive in September of 2009. will be reimbursed for our trip once we soula County. Fortunately, the driver ))) more ®

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get there.” Consent for a search was crash was investigated by Trooper Dave obtained, and seven pounds of marijua - Oliverson and Sergeant Steve Wisniewski. na were found, along with valium and ))) other drug paraphernalia. A drug influ - ence evaluation was performed on the driver by Sergeant Steve Wisniewski, and the driver was also charged DUI drugs. ))) through the Billings Heights, after which several funnel clouds were spotted in the area. One such funnel cloud touched down on the vicinity of Main Street, destroying the grounds, façade, and roof of the Metrapark arena, which was for - tunately empty. The F2 tornado with On January 4, 2010, Trooper Mar - wind speeds up to 130 mph traveled up vin Reddick was investigating a crash Main Street, destroying several other on Highway 287 north of Townsend businesses in its path before dissipat - near the silos. His vehicle was posi - ing. In addition, local residents expe - tioned approximately 35 feet off the rienced flooding. Luckily, only one southbound edge of the four lane road - injury was reported, with no loss of life way, near a fence line, behind a vehi - Trooper Darvin Mees has been select - experienced. Montana Highway Patrol cle that had been involved in a crash. ed as the MHP’s nominee for the “Look - troopers responded and assisted with As he was sitting in his car document - ing Beyond The License Plate” award. traffic control until the area could be ing crash information a pickup travel - This award is sponsored by the High - secured and clean up could begin. ing northbound on 287 lost control, way Safety Committee of the Interna - crossed all lanes of traffic, entered the ))) tional Association of Chiefs of Police eastbound ditch and struck the driver’s with the support of 3M Traffic Safety side of Trooper Reddick’s car. Trooper Systems Division. Reddick saw the pickup at the last Mees’ nomination was based on a moment and leaned toward the center traffic stop for failure to display a front of his patrol car. His movement in the license plate as required in March of car reduced the much of the impact to 2010 which resulted in a seizure of over his body. The patrol car was totaled. five pounds of marijuana and nearly Fortunately, Trooper Reddick only suf - $15,000 in cash. fered minor injuries, was checked out Congratulations Trooper Mees! by ambulance personnel at the scene, and was released. The young female ))) driver of the pickup indicated to Sgt. On May 17, 2010, a rental vehicle Knapp that she lost control on the ice from Washington was stopped for fol - and upon doing so just let go of the steer - lowing too closely on Interstate 94 near ing wheel. This crash is yet another milepost 142. The driver was from Ore - reminder for us to be extra vigilant while gon and was traveling to Illinois. The out on the highway and continually trooper noted drug trafficking indica - watch for errant drivers, particularly tors, and the driver had a history of drug while the roadways are icy. and violent offenses. A K-9 was not ))) available, so the trooper released the subject, but called ahead to the North On March 7, 2010, this vehicle lost On June 12, 2010, Troopers Jason Dakota Highway Patrol, who later stopped control in the Bozeman Pass, bounced Grover and Kyle Hayter presented Ash - the vehicle and located thirty three off the jersey rail, and traveled back ley Schwarz, age 22, with a “Saved by pounds of marijuana in the trunk. across both lanes. When it struck the the Belt” award. Ashley was the restrained dirt, it rolled once. A single strand of passenger of a Ford Focus that was trav - ))) wire on the right-of-way fence kept it eling down Highway 39 toward Colstrip On Sunday, June 20, 2010, a golf from rolling down a 100 foot embank - on April 22, 2010. The driver leaned ball sized hail and rain storm traveled ment and onto the railroad tracks. This more ®

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down to pick something up off the floor of the car, and the car drifted off the right shoulder of the road and into the ditch. It then struck a driveway and rolled more than twice, finally coming to rest on the passenger side. Front and side airbags had deployed. While the unrestrained driver sustained serious injuries and had to be flown to Billings for treatment, Ashley suffered less seri- ous injuries. Trooper Richard Drake nominated Ashley to receive the “Saved by the Belt” award because this crash was an example of how wearing a seat- belt prevented more serious injuries. )))

This post impact photo is of Troop- er Tamra Winchell’s patrol car from a late January collision which occurred as she was parked alongside the high- way. As you can see, the damage is sig- nificant. This crash is a good reminder for everyone to make sure your issued equipment is stored in a fashion that would best prevent the equipment from being pushed into the passenger com- partment of the car in the event a vio- lent rear end impact occurs. K

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Montana Trooper final Patrol Colonel robert James ‘Griff’ Griffith may 24, 1929 - Jan. 17, 2010 Griff was born in Butte. He grew up hearing the whis- ney Griffith and Weston Griffith; his brothers, Eugene and tles that sounded the shift changes in the mines. He gradu- William; and a nephew, Billy. ated from Butte High School in 1947. As a youth he worked Griff is survived by his wife, Barbara; son, Patrick Michael at Safeway as a box boy and sweeper. He (Donna and Kenny); and numerous nieces also held a union card as a meat cutter. and nephews. In 1954 Griff was accepted as a recruit Griff met his old MHP buddies yearly by the Montana Highway Patrol. He spent in Vegas for a spirited golf tourney. He also 40 years with the organization and retired enjoyed bowling, sports of all kinds, and tak- in 1994 as colonel, chief of the Montana ing what we called a “mini-vacation.” This Highway Patrol. consisted of picking a Montana town, enjoy- While posted in Billings he met Isabel ing the drive over, investigating the country Barbara Iams. They were married April 6, surrounding the town, staying overnight and 1968, and spent the first year of their mar- visiting its local pubs and eateries. ried life living in Chicago while Griff attend- Robert was a loving father, a good provider, ed Northwestern University on a grant. and a wonderful companion. Patrick and He was posted to Helena in 1969 Barbara shall miss him terribly. where he remained for the rest of his Cremation has taken place. He was career. Their only child, Patrick Michael, adamant that no services of any kind was born Jan. 3, 1970. be held. Griff was appointed to a seat on the Barbara and Patrick would like to thank Montana Public Employees Retirement all of his old friends who made life so plea- Board by Governor Marc Racicot. He was reappointed to a surable for him. Thank you to Dr. Weiner and his wonderful, second term. He then withdrew his name from considera- cheerful staff at St. Peter’s Cancer Center for giving such com- tion saying he was too old to serve. passionate care. Remember him kindly and if you wish, con- He was preceded in death by his parents, Margaret Car- tribute to his favorite charity, Helena Food Share. K

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