2-10-2026 8:18pm

Ohio State Highway Patrol Announces 2025 Leadership Award Recipients

Beth Callahan Editor

LEBANON, OH -- The Ohio State Highway Patrol announced the recipients of the 2025 Leadership Awards. The Patrol held a ceremony recognizing dozens of state and district award winners for their valuable contributions to Ohio and its communities. One such recipient was Christopher M. Krantz, Wilmington District Headquarters, which includes the Lebanon Post. According to the OSHP press release, Krantz earned the Ohio Trooper Recognition Award....

Ohio Trooper Recognition Award — Trooper Christopher M. Krantz, Wilmington District Headquarters, earned the Ohio Trooper Recognition Award after being selected from 12 recipients. The award recognizes excellence among troopers who are assigned to specialty positions.

Trooper Krantz provides technical and expert guidance in crash investigations. He consistently demonstrates excellence far beyond routine expectations. His commitment to producing high-quality and thoroughly documented reports reflects an unwavering dedication to accuracy and professionalism. Trooper Krantz exhibits strong leadership qualities, including ensuring those around him stay current with the knowledge and skills pertaining to crash reconstruction. In addition, he provides assistance to local court systems. He goes above and beyond providing guidance and expertise as a driver training instructor, and showcases his talents as a member of the Drum and Bugle Corps.

Trooper Krantz began his Patrol career in September 2000 as a member of the 136th Academy Class. He earned his commission in March of the following year and was assigned to the Lebanon Post. He has also been assigned to the Batavia Post. He was named Post Trooper of the Year twice and earned the District Trooper Recognition Award in 2021 and 2023.

Patrol’s Auxiliary members — an all-volunteer force that provides assistance to troopers were also present with awards with Security Manager Deontà Whigham and Park Manager and Vice President of Operations Tony Carovillano of Kings Island receiving Partners for Safety Award.

The Partners for Safety initiative successfully blends statewide corporate partnerships with innovative initiatives at the local level. Partners for Safety involves a commitment of operational, public outreach and relations, and educational activities involving the Patrol and community residents. A lasting goal of the Partners for Safety effort is to promote a safer highway environment, reduce traffic crashes, achieve voluntary compliance with motor vehicle traffic laws, positively impact highway crime at the local level and support other Patrol initiatives.

Security Manager Deontà Whigham and Park Manager and Vice President of Operations Tony Carovillano of Kings Island were selected for their partnership and dedication to advancing traffic safety through their support of the Ohio State Highway Patrol’s “Saved by the Belt” program. Since the partnership began in May 2024, more than 40 individuals have been honored for wearing their safety belts during incidents that could have otherwise resulted in far more serious outcomes. Each recognition serves as a powerful reminder of the life saving impact of proper safety belt use and reinforces the Patrol’s mission to reduce injuries and fatalities on Ohio’s roadways.

A key element of the program’s success is the generosity of Kings Island, which hosts each event in its private restaurant overlooking the park’s main gate. In addition to providing a memorable venue, the park offers complimentary admission tickets to each award recipient and their families, giving them the opportunity to enjoy the park as special guests following their recognition.

Planning is already underway for two additional Saved by the Belt events in May and October of 2026, further strengthening this meaningful collaboration. Kings Island’s continued support has made a measurable difference in elevating public awareness and advancing the Patrol’s mission of traffic safety across the state.

Honorees in Wilmington District:

Trooper Quintin A. Sandlin, Batavia Post; Dispatcher Jessi C. Lovejoy, Lebanon Post; Trooper Christopher M. Krantz, Wilmington District Headquarters; Traci L. Glispie (Administrative Professional 1), Wilmington District Headquarters

Other AWARD Recipients included:

Ohio State Highway Patrol Trooper of the Year – Trooper Haley K. L. Shreck
Ohio State Highway Patrol Dispatcher of the Year – Dispatcher Carrie M. Breech
Employee Recognition Award – Administrative Officer 2 Caroline A. Jarka
Electronic Technician of the Year – Electronic Technician 3 Kraig A. Kent
Distinguished Retiree Award – Retired Staff Lieutenant John C. Shore
Family Recognition Award – Mendy Saunders, Jackson District
Colonel Paul A. Pride State Criminal Patrol Award – Sergeant Brian K. Garloch
Colonel Thomas W. Rice Leadership Award – Sergeant Garrett R. Lawson
Robert M. Chiaramonte Humanitarian Award – Trooper William Watson
Blue Max Award (Patrol’s top auto larceny enforcer) – Trooper David J. Pangburn
Police Officer of the Year – Police Officer 2 Thomas R. Auxter
Motor Vehicle Inspector of the Year – Motor Vehicle Inspector Wayne M. Shaw
Motor Carrier Enforcement Inspector of the Year – Motor Carrier Enforcement Inspector Richard J. Bittner