INDIANAPOLIS – Indiana State Police Superintendent Anthony Scott announced on April 21, 2026, the recipient of the 2025 Indiana State Police Putnamville District Trooper of the Year Award. This honor is bestowed upon a district Trooper who illustrates the department’s standards and expectations related to its mission.
The 2025 Putnamville District Trooper of the Year is Trooper Caleb Hughes. Trooper Hughes’s performance and accomplishments during 2025 are worthy of such recognition and have earned him this award. Trooper Hughes is a two-year veteran of the Indiana State Police.
During 2025, Trooper Hughes concentrated his traffic and criminal enforcement efforts on DUI, drug enforcement, and associated crimes. Trooper Hughes made 56 DUI arrests and 347 criminal arrests, most of which were drug and/or alcohol related. Trooper Hughes regularly assists the local Sheriff’s Department and the Terre Haute City Police with calls for service. Trooper Hughes is currently assigned to the Clay County squad. Trooper Hughes is a Field Training Officer and a member of the Mobile Field Force team. He is a graduate of the 85th ISP Recruit School.
Trooper Hughes was also recognized as the Putnamville District’s Top DUI Trooper with 56 impaired drivers apprehended during 2025.
Lieutenant Dave Cox, Commander of the Putnamville Post, commented, “Trooper Hughes consistently maintains a high standard of professionalism, preparedness, and physical fitness. He sets the example for what a trooper is and is widely respected by his peers, showing dedication, a positive attitude, and commitment to serving as a trooper.”
Trooper Hughes resides in Vigo County with his wife, Madison, and they are expecting their first child this summer.
