Indiana hands over keys to 51 new state troopers

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – 51 men and women took another step toward becoming official Indiana State Police troopers Tuesday.  

It all happened in an emotional ceremony at the Indiana State Police Museum on the city’s east side.  

“It means the world to me to get my patrol car. I’ve been waiting for this day for about seven months now,” said Trooper Blake Lipmar.  

Almost eight months of classroom and field training prepared these probationary officers. Five of those months were spent at the Indiana State Police Recruit Academy learning to shoot and studying both psychology and criminal law. After that, it was onto intense field training.  

Now, they have the keys to their patrol cars and are heading out on their own for the first time.

“I still remember when I got my car. The first day and the first traffic stop you make, those are things that you never forget, ” said ISP Captain David Bursten.  

It’s a celebratory day, but for these new recruits it’s been an emotional process. And it’s not just tough on the recruits.  

“I’m very nervous for him. I know that they’ll do fine out there. I know that he is ready for this,” said Elaine McMinn, the mother of a new recruit. 

After a one year probationary period, the troopers become official members of Indiana State Police.