COLUMBUS — The Patrol’s 161st Academy Class graduated recently after 23 weeks of intense training. The keynote address was provided by Gov. John Kasich. Additional remarks were provided by Director John Born, Ohio Department of Public Safety, Colonel Paul A. Pride, Patrol Superintendent and Captain Arthur J. Combest, Academy Commandant. The oath of office was issued by Judge Peter B. Abele, Fourth Appellate District, Ohio Court of Appeals.

Courses completed by the 161st class included, crash investigation, criminal and traffic law, detection of impaired drivers, firearms, physical fitness, self-defense and emergency vehicle operations.

Trooper Joshua E. Jones, of Tipp City, Ohio, was selected as class speaker and thanked the Academy and cadet family members for being supportive during their training.

Each of the graduates reported to their posts on Monday, March 27, 2017. The graduates’ first 60 working days will be a field-training period under the guidance of a veteran officer. The new graduates are assigned to 24 of the Patrol’s 58 posts.

Graduates who were assigned to the Piqua District include Michael J. Austin, Kenton, Marysville Post; Brandon N. Craft, St. Marys, Wapakoneta Post; Zachary M. Deitering, Wapakoneta, Wapakoneta Post; John A Garner, Lewisburg, Xenia Post; Spencer D Groves, Grove City, Marysville Post; Joshua E Jones, Tipp City, Piqua Post; Benjamin Y Lee, Redwood City, California, Marysville Post; Dearko D McCathron, Dayton, Piqua Post; Shane A Overla, Grove City, Springfield Post;Donald J Robers, Logan, Springfield Post; and Jason L Whitner, Columbus, Xenia Post.