SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Two Eastern Panhandle troopers were recognized this week as the West Virginia State Police handed out a number of awards for exemplary work and distinguished service.
Among those honored were Senior Trooper Abe Bean and Trooper Caden Spessert. Bean and Spessert were shot while answering a call and trying to serve an arrest warrant in Martinsburg last December. Colonel Jack Chambers presented the two with the Medal of Valor and Purple hearts.
Spessert returned to duty, but Bean lost his leg from the gunshot wounds he suffered.
“Abe Bean is a hero in West Virginia,” said Governor Jim Justice after meeting Bean and his family.
“These are the people we call when we need them the most. They’re the first people we call and they come running to our rescue. Absolutely never ever forget these great heroes,” said Justice.
Bean was hospitalized at a Fairfax, Virginia hospital after being shot four times, including once in the chest, once in the shoulder and twice in the leg, at a home in Martinsburg on Dec. 17, 2023. Bean and Spessert were at the home to serve an arrest warrant for Tobias Ganey.
Along with Bean and Spessert, State Police Colonel Jack Chambers also recognized Corporal J.M. Hebb, Senior Trooper T.G. Bryan, Senior Trooper K.C. Raymond, Trooper N.A. Rogers, Troopers R.S. Clagg, and Spessert with Life Saving Medals. Spessert actually was decorated with two life saving medals.
Superintendents Awards were presented to Trooper I. L Bowman and civilian employee/retired member, Sally A. Hatten. Trooper Bowman was also awarded with a new cruiser.
Troopers recognized for exemplary action and distinguished service. PHOTO: WVSP Facebook
This story was originally published in its entirety at WVMetroNews.com
