Ohio State Highway Patrol Looks For Auxiliary Members

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The Ohio State Highway Patrol Auxiliary is an all-volunteer force that provides assistance to troopers in the course of their duties. Crash scene and traffic stop assistance, traffic control, disaster relief and special detail support are among the duties of an Auxiliary officer.

“We’re always looking for some help” Lt. Tim Karwatske, Chillicothe Post Commander, told Litter Media Thursday. “They’re not actually troopers or police officers, they don’t have arrest powers, but they can help supplement our forces in other ways.”

Karwatske says auxiliary members who ride with troopers can help with forms and take statements and assist by watching prisoners for a trooper. “They can help us if we’re inventorying vehicles, and gather evidence in certain circumstances. They can come into the post if it’s a real busy day and help answer phones” which is very handy during inclement weather as in recent weeks.

The OSHP Auxiliary was formed in 1942 when many commissioned troopers began entering the armed forces during World War II. At that time, membership was limited to members of the American Legion, which was largely made up of war veterans unlikely to be drafted into service.

After the war, the Auxiliary was a critical component of Ohio’s Civil Defense Plan, with officers assigned to vital crossroads to assist with evacuation and convoy movement.

Karwatske said interested persons should visit www.statepatrol.ohio.gov. “That basically puts them in touch with the Columbus recruitment office and then go from there.”

Today, Auxiliary members contribute thousands of hours in an assortment of functions. Each is required to log a minimum of 120 hours per year to remain active. 

Current requirements to become an Auxiliary are:

• Must have valid Ohio driver license
• Age 21-57 (except for retired OSHP officers)
• Good physical condition
• High school diploma or GED
• No felony convictions
• Pass a background investigation
• Pre-employment polygraph exam
• Ability to communicate in a clear manner
• Availability for training and service

Applicants must pass a medical exam, which must be conducted by a physician at their own expense. Applicants must also pass written and physical tests. Auxiliary members are required to conform to grooming standards and purchase a uniform.

Physical Agility Test

To be conducted at a local Highway Patrol post:

• Run: 1.5 mile run at the 20th percentile time indicated by the Cooper Institute standards for the applicant’s age and gender.
• Push-ups: Minimum number of pushups indicated by the 20th percentile of the Cooper Institute standards for the applicant’s age and gender.
• Sit-ups: Minimum number of sit-ups indicated by the 20th percentile of the Cooper Institute standards for the applicant’s age and gender.

Background Investigation

The following issues in an applicant’s background may result in rejection of an application:

• Domestic violence conviction
• Drug-related conviction
• Excessive use of alcohol
• Anti-social behavior
• Poor driving record (numerous crashes or moving violations)

To inquire about a possible position in the OSHP Auxiliary, call your nearest Patrol post, email OSPAux@dps.ohio.gov, or apply online.