South Dakota Highway Patrol Trooper Kyle Knievel has been named one of four finalists for the International Association of Chiefs of Police/Motorola Solutions Trooper of the Year Award. The winner will be announced March 12 at the IACP Midyear Meeting in Boston.
Gov. Larry Rhoden praised Knievel, saying his actions “saved lives” and demonstrated exceptional courage and professionalism.
Knievel was nominated for his response to an August 2025 high‑risk incident in Haakon County, when a pursuit turned into a hostage situation. The suspect fired at law enforcement before Trooper Knievel engaged and stopped the threat, allowing officers to rescue the hostage unharmed.
The annual award honors troopers across North America for extraordinary bravery and service.
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