Lt. Matt Arnell, Commander of Troop D, outlines the benefits of the recent redistricting, emphasizing the need for additional troopers in Lincoln County to better serve the Star Valley area. COURTESY PHOTO

• Lt. Matt Arnell discusses recent redistricting

Recent changes in the Wyoming Highway Patrol have restructured the jurisdiction for Lincoln County, now officially part of Troop D, previously under Troop K. This significant shift aims to improve law enforcement efficiency and response times across the region.

In an interview with Lt. Matt Arnell, the Commander for Troop D, shared insights into the redistricting process. With 24 years of experience in the Wyoming Highway Patrol and a decade as a commander overseeing troopers, Arnell emphasized the importance of these changes. “We’ve redistricted throughout the state,” he explained. “Now, Lincoln County is part of Troop D, which allows us to better allocate our resources.”

The redistricting aims to address staffing needs, particularly in the Star Valley area. Currently, the Highway Patrol is seeking to bolster its workforce, as Arnell noted, “We need two more troopers for the valley. If you are interested, apply—we’d love to have you.”

This restructuring is designed to free up personnel and make special teams more accessible, allowing the patrol to enhance its focus on local safety. “We now have troopers dedicated to this area and they are no longer being called to go up to Teton County [Troop K],” Arnell stated. “Troopers are now strictly focused on the Star Valley area.”

Despite the changes, the Highway Patrol is aware of the increased traffic during the summer months. “There’s still a lot of traffic coming through here in the summertime,” Arnell mentioned. Currently, the patrol has one trooper stationed in the area each day, but they aim to increase this presence.

“Our main focus is safety on the roadways and criminal interdiction,” he said.

As the Highway Patrol adapts to these new changes, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of residents and travelers alike in Lincoln County and beyond. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about local law enforcement efforts and consider joining the ranks if they are interested in a rewarding career in public safety.