A second generation soldier is on the road.
“I always wanted to be in law enforcement,” Private Shane Ballew said. “I decided a few years ago that I wanted to get into state law enforcement.”
A deputy with the Van Buren County Sheriff’s Department since 2015, Ballew was one of 56 graduates this month from the 1021 Trooper Cadet Class. The class included five law enforcement officers, 14 cadets with prior military service, six cadets with associate’s degrees, 19 cadets with bachelor’s degrees, and one cadet with a master’s degree.
Ballew received his certification from Governor Bill Lee, Department of Safety and Homeland Security commissioner Jeff Long, and THP Col. Matt Perry.
Ballew is the second generation of his family to pursue a career in state law enforcement. Sergeant THP. Kevin Ballew is stationed in Warren County and began serving in Highway Patrol in 2000.
“My dad is a great role model,” Shane said. “I always strived to be as good as him.”
Shane will be assigned to Van Buren and White counties.
“Watching your son grow up as a child and later become the man you hoped he would be is a huge blessing,” Kevin said. “I am very proud of my son Shane. I know he will serve the Tennessee Highway Patrol with integrity and professionalism.
Sergeant THP. Ronnie Simmons will be his immediate supervisor.
