NY State Senator Pam Helming (center) congratulated new state police graduates August Gordner, Owen Shedden, Dylan Southcott and Tomas Ippolito (left to right in the photo. Photo provided by Helming’s office
New York State Senator Pam Helming met in late May with members of the 218th Basic School graduating class and New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center in Albany. During the visit, State Senator Helming presented New York State Senate Citations to four graduates from her district in recognition of their achievement, dedication, and commitment to public service.
State Senator Helming recognized the following constituents:
- Trooper Tomas Ippolito of Newark
- Trooper Owen Shedden of Honeoye Falls
- Trooper Dylan Southcott of Ontario
- Trooper August Gordner of Shortsville
Of the 175 graduates, 18 were assigned to Troop E, headquartered in Farmington, Ontario County. Troop E serves communities across the Finger Lakes and Western New York region, including Wayne, Monroe, Livingston, and Ontario counties.
State Senator Helming said, “Graduating from the New York State Police Academy represents an extraordinary accomplishment and the beginning of a career dedicated to protecting others. The training required to become a New York State Trooper demands discipline, integrity, resilience, and a strong commitment to public service. I was proud to recognize Thomas, Owen, Dylan, and August for their hard work and dedication, and I thank them for answering the call to serve.”
The graduation marked the successful completion of six months of intensive training, including academic instruction, physical conditioning, tactical preparation, and field training.
The graduates reported to their assigned troops May 30, where they continue field training under the supervision of Senior Field Training Officers.
