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Highways Patrol recognizes two staff for outstanding service

The South Dakota Highway Patrol announces awards for personnel of the year.

Trooper Jordan Melius is Trooper of the Year. She’s been with the department since 2016 based out of their Watertown station, according to a Highway Patrol spokesperson. Melius is a field training officer, drug recognition expert, recruiting team member, assistant squad leader, and member of the peer support team for the department.

Mehsin Wehbe is the Motor Carrier Inspector of the Year. He’s been with the division since 2019. In his role, he puts safety of his fellow inspectors, South Dakota citizens, and those traveling as his top priority.

"The South Dakota Highway Patrol is proud to recognize Trooper Melius and Inspector Wehbe for their remarkable work in 2023," said Colonel Casey Collins, Superintendent of the Highway Patrol. "Trooper Melius and Inspector Wehbe exemplify the South Dakota Highway Patrol’s commitment to safeguarding and serving the people of South Dakota.”

Both award recipients were recognized for their dedication and contributions to keeping South Dakota’s roads safe at the 12th Annual Highway Patrol Awards ceremony.

Trooper Jordan Melius (center) is named the 2023 Trooper of the Year and accepts the award from Lt. Governor Larry Rhoden and Col. Casey Collins.
South Dakota Highway Patrol
Trooper Jordan Melius (center) is named the 2023 Trooper of the Year and accepts the award from Lt. Governor Larry Rhoden and Col. Casey Collins.
Lt. Governor Larry Rhoden congratulates Motor Carrier Inspector Mehsin Wehbe, named the 2023 Motor Carrier Inspector of the Year.
South Dakota Highway Patrol
Lt. Governor Larry Rhoden congratulates Motor Carrier Inspector Mehsin Wehbe, named the 2023 Motor Carrier Inspector of the Year.

Ryan is the local host of "Morning Edition". Originally from Iowa, he first came to the Black Hills to study at SD Mines. After graduating in 2019, he was an educator in Arizona and North Dakota before returning to the Black Hills.