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ISP Trooper Dustin Smith (Fulton Co.) named Peru District Trooper of the Year

Wednesday, April 22, 2026 at 5:51 PM

By Staff report

Indiana State Police hosted its annual Awards and Recognition Ceremony in Indianapolis, honoring troopers across the state for exceptional service, dedication, and achievements that often go unnoticed by the public.

The event recognized individuals who demonstrated exemplary commitment to the department and to the citizens of Indiana. 

Trooper Dustin Smith was recognized as the 2025 Indiana State Police Peru District Trooper of the Year. The award is given annually to the trooper who personifies integrity, professionalism, and a well-rounded work ethic. Smith was selected by the command staff at the Peru Post for his dedication to his job, traffic and criminal enforcement, community involvement, instructor ratings, specialty assignments, and other services provided by the officer that exceeded department expectations. In 2025, Smith had 218 criminal arrests, with 19 of those being felonies. Smith investigated over 42 criminal cases, worked 13 crashes, answered 339 calls for service, and initiated 1,273 traffic stops. Smith has worked for the Indiana State Police for three years and primarily works in Fulton County.

Trooper Adam Kirk received the Indiana State Police Peru District Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Award for his commitment to removing impaired drivers from Indiana roadways. In 2025, Kirk led the Peru Post with 58 impaired driver arrests. Kirk exemplifies the professionalism and integrity expected of Indiana State Police troopers. Kirk’s actions continue to make Indiana's roadways safer for its citizens. He has worked with the Indiana State Police Department for two years and primarily works in Howard and Tipton Counties.

ISP Lt. T.J. Zeiser received the Indiana State Police Combat Action Award for his courageous action during a shooting incident that took place in January of 2025. 

On January 7, 2025, Lieutenant Zeiser responded to a 911 call of a disorderly subject allegedly banging on windows at a residence on SR 19, N of US 24. Lt. Zeiser was accompanied by Trooper Matt Moon and Peru PD officers Jeremy Brindle and Tyler Shoffner. Upon arrival, officers spoke with the complainant and obtained information about a possible suspect at a nearby trailer. As officers approached the trailer in question, they encountered a male suspect outside. Officers attempted to give verbal commands to the suspect, but he refused and brandished a firearm. At that time, Lt. Zeiser discharged his firearm, striking the suspect. After being struck, the suspect retreated to the front porch of the trailer and dropped the firearm. Medical aid was immediately rendered on the suspect, and he was taken into custody. Lt. Zeiser's quick thinking and decisive actions during this officer-involved shooting undoubtedly prevented injury or death to himself and others. Lieutenant Zeiser’s actions and dedication to duty are in keeping with the finest traditions of law enforcement and reflect great credit upon themselves and the Indiana State Police.

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