Montana Highway Patrol Graduates Largest Trooper Class in 20 Years

The Montana Highway Patrol commissioned 17 new troopers Friday at a graduation ceremony in Helena, marking the largest class in the past two decades. The ceremony featured addresses from Attorney General Austin Knudsen and MHP Colonel Kurt Sager before the badge pinning of the new officers.

“The new troopers will join the ranks of some of the best and bravest law enforcement officers in the country. I’m proud of their decision to join the Montana Highway Patrol and confident in their ability to protect Montanans and their communities,” Attorney General Knudsen said.

Col. Sager echoed those sentiments, stating, “It’s a privilege to welcome these 17 new troopers to the Montana Highway Patrol. These men and women are ready to serve their communities with pride and dedication as we continue to carry out our mission of protecting Montana’s roads and highways.”

Intensive Training Program

The new troopers completed the 81st MHP Advanced Academy, undergoing 24 weeks of intensive training. The class drew candidates from across the United States, with officers coming from Missouri, Pennsylvania, Oregon, and California, though 12 of the 17 new troopers are Montana natives.

The newly commissioned troopers and their initial duty stations include:

• Leif Anderberg – Great Falls (Great Falls native)
• Joseph Arias – Kalispell (Kalispell native)
• Alan Au Buchon – Bozeman (Jefferson City, MO)
• Ray Barricelli – Glendive (Dingsman Ferry, PA)
• Jesse Berg – Miles City (Miles City native)
• Cody Bicknell – Chinook (Kalispell native)
• Jen Brehm – Missoula (Julian, CA)
• Joy Downer – Deer Lodge (Helena native)
• Trevor Frandsen – Missoula (Missoula native)
• James Greaney – Townsend (Helena native)
• Alan Janzen – Townsend (Fairfield native)
• Samantha Klein – Polson (Sandy, OR)
• Will Link – Butte (Butte native)
• Levi Little – Drummond (Helena native)
• Jonah Logan – Eureka (Libby native)
• Emelie Maes – Helena (Helena native)
• Jen Torgerson – Havre (Havre native)

Promotions and Recruitment

Following the graduation ceremony, the Montana Highway Patrol held a promotion ceremony. Lucas Herl was promoted to Impaired Driving Section Sergeant, and Andrew Horton was promoted to Detachment Commander in Libby.

The Montana Highway Patrol continues to recruit for trooper positions through July 20. Those interested in applying can find more information about the recruitment process and submit applications through the state’s job portal.