PENDLETON – Indiana State Police Pendleton District Assistant Commander, First Sergeant Coley McCutcheon, recently announced the recipient of the 2024 Indiana State Police Pendleton District Trooper of the Year Award. This honor is bestowed upon the district trooper who best exemplifies the department’s high standards and expectations about its mission.
The 2024 Pendleton District Trooper of the Year is Master Trooper Barry Bischoff. Master Trooper Bischoff received his award in a ceremony held yesterday at the Indiana Government Center South Building in Indianapolis. During the ceremony, the award was presented by Superintendent Anthony Scott. Master Trooper Bischoff’s performance and accomplishments are worthy of such recognition. Master Trooper Bischoff is a twenty-year veteran of the Indiana State Police.
Throughout 2024, Master Trooper Barry Bischoff demonstrated a relentless commitment to public safety and professionalism. He responded to 917 calls for service, including investigating 44 vehicle crashes. He conducted 726 vehicle stops, maintaining a strong and visible presence on the interstate, and arrested 47 criminal defendants, 11 of whom were felony arrests.
Master Trooper Bischoff has a long-standing passion for drug interdiction, dedicating a significant portion of his discretionary time to identifying and intercepting individuals trafficking illegal narcotics. His efforts led to numerous drug-related arrests throughout the year, including a major seizure of 3.5 pounds of cocaine in June. In April, he conducted a vehicle stop that resulted in the arrest of an Ohio man wanted for a March 2024 murder, removing a dangerous individual from the streets.
In addition to his patrol duties, Master Trooper Bischoff has consistently gone above and beyond in service to his fellow officers and the broader law enforcement community. In 2024, he marked his 10th year providing logistical support for the annual Indiana COPS Memorial Bicycle Ride, a 1,000-mile journey honoring fallen officers across the state. His behind-the-scenes dedication ensures participants remain safe during the event.
Bischoff’s commitment to teamwork was evident when he assisted a fellow K9 handler facing health challenges. Though his K9 partner, Gaston, retired in 2017 after a decade of service (2007-2017), Bischoff temporarily returned to K9 duties, caring for and working with K9 Cooper for a year until the handler could return to full duties.
Master Trooper Bischoff’s dedication, integrity, and selflessness embody the finest qualities of the Indiana State Police. His leadership, mentorship, and work ethic make him a true asset to the Pendleton District and the community we serve.
