New Jersey State Police announce 2018 Trooper of the Year

TRENTON (WTXF) - The New Jersey State Police announced the recipient of the 2018 Trooper of the Year award on Friday.

Trooper Keith Ashely of Hamilton, New Jersey was awarded the honor after leading 103 criminal investigations which resulted in the arrest of more than 300 suspects for a range of crimes.

Ashley worked cooperatively with many branches of the State Police force including the Criminal Investigation Office, Strategic Initiative Unit, Crime Suppression Unit and the Gangs and Organized Crime Unit.

As a traffic enforcement officer, Ashley was responsible for arresting 26 motorists suspected of driving while impaired, and confiscating narcotics and drug paraphernalia.

"The number and range of criminal investigations spearheaded by Trooper Ashley are a testament to his talent, resourcefulness, and commitment as a law enforcement officer," said Attorney General Grewal.

"In the 98-year history of the New Jersey State Police, more than 8,200 men and women have earned the title New Jersey State Trooper, but only 56 have had the distinction of being named 'Trooper of the Year,'" said Colonel Callahan.

The New Jersey State Police Trooper of the Year award is the highest honor the division grants. Troopers who earn the award receive a red ribbon encased in gold, which they don on their uniform.