TIMONIUM, MD – Maryland State Police revealed their 2025 Trooper of the Year selection Thursday during an awards ceremony that recognized over 200 personnel for exceptional service, bravery, life-saving actions, and community dedication.
The ceremony honored Maryland State Troopers, department civilian staff, partner law enforcement officers, and emergency responders with various recognitions including Governor’s Citations, Superintendent Salutes, Life Saving Awards, and other prestigious honors.
“It is an honor to recognize the sworn and professional staff members of the Department who go above and beyond to serve and protect all Marylanders,” said Colonel Michael A. Jackson, Superintendent of the Maryland State Police. “Their stories of heroism, service, and commitment contribute to the legacy of tradition and excellence that shapes what the Maryland Department of State Police represents.”
Trooper First Class Bryce Thienhom, 2025 Trooper of the Year
TFC Thienhom, who completed the 154th Maryland State Police Academy Class, serves at the Rockville Barrack and has shown exceptional dedication to public safety while continuously developing his expertise. He completed advanced training in crash reconstruction, DUI detection, intoximeter operations, and highway firearms crime investigation, directly applying these skills in his daily work. His 156 DUI arrests in the past year represents the highest number achieved by any Maryland State Trooper since 2013, removing dangerous impaired drivers from state roads.
Captain Milt Taylor Humanitarian Awardee, Trooper First Class Clay Barnhart
TFC Barnhart received the Captain Milt Taylor Humanitarian Award for his extensive community involvement. Beginning in 2023, TFC Barnhart has led and joined multiple community support programs, including food collection drives for the College Park Food Pantry, Toys for Tots campaigns, Special Olympics Maryland fundraising through the Maryland State Police Polar Bear Plunge, youth sports coaching, and various community gatherings.
2025 Maryland State Police Emergency Dispatcher Supervisor of the Year, Jessica Wilson
Emergency Dispatcher Supervisor Jessica Wilson brings 18 years of department experience to her role overseeing dispatch operations for the College Park and Forestville Barracks in Prince George’s County, the state’s most active and challenging jurisdiction. EDS Wilson maintains outstanding performance despite managing high call volumes, complex operations, and continuous pressure typical of this demanding assignment.
2025 Maryland State Police Emergency Dispatcher of the Year, Lauren Powell
Emergency Dispatcher Lauren Powell has served the department for 19 years and currently works at the Salisbury Barrack. As a dispatcher, she excels in high-pressure situations while maintaining remarkable composure and professionalism during emergency calls. Beyond supporting other barracks when needed, ED Powell has volunteered with the Federalsburg Fire Department since 1998.
2025 Civilian of the Year, Diana Riley
The 2025 Maryland State Police Civilian of the Year recognition went to Ms. Diana Riley for her commitment, professionalism, and nearly three decades of department service. Though unable to attend the ceremony, Ms. Riley was celebrated for her career that began as an emergency dispatcher in 1996, followed by promotion to emergency dispatcher supervisor. She currently holds the position of CJIS Systems Officer (CSO) for Maryland, managing all Criminal Justice Information Services operations, including criminal record management, system usage, and National Crime Information Center (NCIC) access.
Maryland State Police Underwater Recovery Team (URT) members, Tactical Medics Unit personnel, and Office of the State Fire Marshal Underwater Hazardous Device Team received Governor’s Citations for their response to last January’s midair collision between American Airlines Flight 5432 and a U.S. Army Blackhawk helicopter. These first responders dedicated extensive hours working in dangerous conditions including submerged debris, near-freezing water temperatures, limited visibility, and hazardous materials to recover victims and bring closure to grieving families.
