OLYMPIA — The Washington State Patrol has welcomed 12 new Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Officers who graduated this week, ready to enhance the safety of commercial motor vehicle operations across the state, according to a statement from WSP Director of Communications Chris Loftis.

Following 24 weeks of rigorous training –14 weeks at the WSP Academy in Shelton and an additional 10 weeks of field training – these officers are equipped with the skills and knowledge to enforce regulations governing commercial vehicle safety, according to Loftis.

During their field training, the recruits made over 1,676 vehicle contacts, conducted 1,669 inspections, investigated 59 collisions and placed 1,088 vehicles out of service due to safety violations, according to the statement. Their studies covered various critical topics, including weight and size regulations, hazardous materials handling and driver licensing.

The newly graduated class includes Officers assigned to various ports of entry and School Bus divisions throughout the state.

The new graduates of the 20th CVEO Basic Class include: Officer Lynn Morse, assigned to Spokane Port of Entry; Officer Ashley Minero, assigned to Cle Elum Port of Entry; Officer Miranda Matchett, assigned to School Bus West; Officer Elijah Saleem, assigned to School Bus North; Officer Gary Davey, assigned to Commercial Vehicle Division Spokane Interior; Officer Mitchell Molina, assigned to Bow Hill Port of Entry; Officer Tyson Hupp, assigned to Commercial Vehicle Division Spokane Interior; Officer Michael Camacho, assigned to School Bus West; Officer Michael Earl, assigned to Cle Elum Port of Entry; Officer Cliff Patridge, assigned to Commercial Vehicle Division Moses Lake Interior; and Officer Vidyanshu Sharma, assigned to School Bus North.

Officer Michael Camacho distinguished himself, earning multiple awards, including the 2023 Core Values Award, presented by Luanne Mason, the daughter of a fallen WSP officer.

“The award is determined by an anonymous vote among the classmates and is presented to the officer who most exemplifies the agency’s core values of honesty, integrity, team-oriented, attention to detail, self-discipline, adaptability, performance-driven, professionalism, officer safety and sense of urgency,” Loftis wrote in the statement.

CVEOs undergo extensive evaluations, including a written exam, background checks and medical assessments, ensuring their preparedness for this role in public safety, according to the statement.