Among the honorees was Lieutenant James Wagner, of Troop G, Bedford, who was critically injured by a gunman who opened fire at the Lewistown Station before fatally shooting Trooper Jacques F. “Jay” Rougeau on June 17, 2023. Lieutenant Wagner, a 21-year veteran of the PSP, received the Pennsylvania State Police Purple Heart and Trooper of the Year Award for risking his life to stop the Mifflintown gunman. He was shot while courageously coordinating a high-risk response that aided in locating and ultimately eliminating the armed suspect.
Five people traveling in the area where Lieutenant Wagner was shot received the Outstanding Citizenship Award for jumping into action to help save his life. The citizens administered CPR and other critical aid until emergency medical services arrived.
Working tirelessly behind the scenes during the Juniata County incident, Police Communications Operator (PCO) Amy Torres received the PCO of the Year Award for her ability to provide immediate updates and support for responding members. She simultaneously fielded calls from both PSP and the public to keep everyone informed and safe.
“While June 17, 2023, was marred by tragedy, these award recipients demonstrated valor, bravery, composure, and selflessness to neutralize the threat and prevent further loss of life,” said PSP Commissioner Col. Christopher Paris. “I am deeply grateful for these individuals and all of this year’s awardees for their dedicated efforts to go above and beyond their duties to help protect the Commonwealth.”
Other award recipients included:
- Trooper Logan C. Spiece, Troop F, Milton, who received the Pennsylvania State Police Purple Heart. On April 12, 2023, Trooper Spiece was shot in the leg by a domestic violence suspect during a foot pursuit. Despite being injured, Trooper Spiece returned fire, effectively stopping the suspect.
- Trooper Joshua W. Osche, Troop D, Butler, received the Commendation Medal. While off-duty on August 24, 2023, Trooper Osche assisted a disabled motorist and was struck by a vehicle. A witness who saw the crash, Blair Johnson, dragged Trooper Osche off the road to safety and stabilized him until emergency medical services arrived. Trooper Osche suffered severe injuries and underwent multiple surgeries as well as intense physical therapy to regain his ability to serve the public. Mr. Johnson received the Outstanding Citizenship Award for his selfless actions.
- Motor Carrier Enforcement Supervisor (MCES) Mitchell J. Scalia received the 2023 Motor Carrier Enforcement Officer of the Year Award. After recently retiring with more than 34 years of experience, MCES Scalia was one of the highest-producing enforcement officers in Pennsylvania, playing an integral role in leading Troop G’s Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Program.
- Bureau Administrative Manager Shana M. Skiles, Bureau of Criminal Investigation, received Employee of the Year. Throughout 2023, Mrs. Skiles stepped up and wore many hats to balance managing tasks for both the Bureau of Emergency and Special Operations and the Bureau of Criminal Investigation.
- Lieutenant Matthew J. Bonin, Bureau of Criminal Investigation; Corporal Caleb Diaz, Troop K, Media; and Trooper First Class Dana Martini, Troop G, Hollidaysburg, received Commissioner’s Letters of Commendation for demonstrating exemplary conduct in service. On November 3, 2023, they worked together diligently to locate a missing 84-year-old man and bring him home safely.
- The Area I recipients are members of the Troop E, Erie Criminal Investigation Section and Major Case Team. They led an extensive homicide investigation resulting in an arrest and the discovery of the victim’s remains that may have otherwise never been found.
- The Area II recipients are members of the Troop H Criminal Investigation Section. Their investigative efforts helped identify a homicide victim who was found nearly 10 years earlier, uncovered details of the killing and ultimately led them to the suspects.
- The Area III recipients are members of Troop R, Dunmore Criminal Investigation Unit and Troop R Major Case Team. Their investigative work tracked down the gunman who fatally shot a 34-year-old at a dance club.
- The Area IV recipients are members of the Troop J, Vice/Narcotics Unit and their local investigative partners who conducted a months-long investigation that took down a large drug trafficking organization.