FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 27, 2002
CONTACT: SID GAULDEN, 803-896-8755

COLUMBIA – The South Carolina Department of Public Safety today presented Senior Trooper J. Z. Duke with the Highway Patrol’s District Five Trooper of the Year award at the annual Employee Recognition Ceremony. District Five includes Darlington, Dillon, Florence, Georgetown, Horry, Marion, Marlboro and Williamsburg Counties.

Duke has been with the Highway Patrol for three years and is currently stationed in Florence County. He is a member of the Advanced Civil Emergency Response Team, the Honor Guard, and the Physical Fitness Team. Duke was the District Five ACE Award winner last year, with 51 arrests for possession of marijuana, including seven with intent to distribute, and nine arrests for possession of cocaine, including seven with intent to distribute.

"Trooper Duke’s professionalism and high standards have earned him the respect of his co-workers and of officers from other law enforcement agencies," said DPS Director B. Boykin Rose. "He is a high-potential employee who constantly seeks self-improvement."

Duke, a native of Lake City, currently resides in Coward. He is married and the father of one child. He is a graduate of The Citadel with a degree in business administration. Duke is a member of Peace Free Will Baptist Church.

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JB/40/2002

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