Last week, Governor Mike DeWine recognized the outstanding performance of three Ohio State Highway Patrol troopers at the inaugural National Top Trooper Competition, hosted earlier this month by the Texas Department of Public Safety. Among those honored was Trooper Adam T. Pollitt, a native of Manchester and graduate of West Union High School, whose leadership played a vital behind-the-scenes role in Ohio’s strong national showing.
Trooper Pollitt, who now serves at the Patrol’s Training Academy, was selected as the team leader and alternate for Ohio’s Top Trooper team. Though he did not compete in individual events, his steady guidance, preparation, and unwavering support were credited as instrumental to the team’s second-place finish in the overall competition.
Pollitt’s contributions underscore a career rooted in service and commitment. He was sworn in as a State Trooper in March 2017 as a member of the 161st Academy Class, a milestone previously reported in the Informer by then staff writer Jason M. Francis. Since that time, Pollitt has built a reputation for professionalism, discipline, and quiet leadership—qualities that came to the forefront in the national spotlight.
“Trooper Pollitt exemplifies what it means to lead with integrity and purpose,” said Governor DeWine. “While he wasn’t in the competition ring, his leadership made all the difference. Ohio is proud to have him representing our state.”
Pollitt’s teammates, Trooper Samuel R. Hammon of the Defiance Post and Trooper Sarah A. Korsten of the Elyria Post, both brought home individual honors. Hammon earned second place overall nationally and first place in the leadership interview event, while Korsten claimed first place in a national driving event and was named the top overall female driver in the country.
The National Top Trooper Competition brought together elite law enforcement officers from across the United States to test their skills in tactical driving, decision-making, communication, and leadership. Though only in its first year, the competition is already seen as a premier showcase of the best in American policing.
Reflecting on the experience, Pollitt remained humble. “It was an honor to support my teammates and represent Ohio,” he said. “This team’s success was a group effort, and I’m grateful to have played a part.”
As a native son of Adams County, Trooper Pollitt continues to make his hometown and home state proud—proving that strong leadership isn’t always about the spotlight, but about lifting others up to achieve their best.
