Two ISP-Versailles Troopers Honored at Awards Ceremony

Congratulations to Austin Straub and Clayton Saltzman.

Picture (L to R): Sgt. Zachariah Ruble, Trp. Clayton Saltzman, Trp. Austin Straub, Lt. Paul Adams. Photo provided.

INDIANAPOLIS - The Indiana State Police held their annual awards and recognition ceremony in Indianapolis last week.

The ceremony recognized the achievements and accomplishments of ISP employees for their service, dedication and bravery to the department and citizens of Indiana.

Of the honorees, two were from the Indiana State Police-Versailles Post.

Trooper Austin Straub was named the 2022 Trooper of the District for the Versailles Post.

Straub is a three-year veteran of ISP who is assigned to Zone 1, primarily patrolling Jackson and Bartholomew counties. Last year, Straub had over 1,300 traffic contacts, 155 criminal arrests, 14 DUI arrests, and investigated 25 crashes.

ISP-Versailles District Commander, Lieutenant Paul Adams said, “Trooper Straub is a well-rounded trooper who is motivated and dedicated to completing the mission of the Indiana State Police.  He is well respected in the community by the citizens he serves and is determined to make a difference.  He is very deserving to be the 2022 Trooper of the District”.

Trooper Clayton Saltzman was also honored at the awards ceremony with a Life Saving Award.

Saltzman responded to a motorcycle crash on I-65 in Jackson County on August 25, 2022. Upon arriving at the scene, Saltzman observed a male that had suffered traumatic injuries to both his arms. He applied tourniquets to both arms to stop the bleeding, ultimately saving the victim’s life.

Lieutenant Paul Adams said, “We honor Trooper Saltzman for his quick actions that resulted in a life being saved.  He remained calm under extremely stressful circumstances and relied on his training when seconds mattered.  We appreciate the Jackson County EMS, fire departments, and other first responders for their quick response and their ability to provide additional care in getting the victim to a trauma center for further treatment.”