Greentown native honored for decades of service with Indiana State Police

The Indiana State Police proudly announces the retirement of Detective Jay Harper, who has honorably served the citizens of Indiana for more than four decades.

Harper officially retired on April 22, after 40 years of unwavering commitment to law enforcement and public safety.

A native of Greentown, Harper graduated from Eastern Howard High School in 1978 and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice with a minor in sociology from Ball State University in 1982. He began his law enforcement career shortly thereafter, graduating from the 42nd Indiana State Police Recruit Academy in November 1984.

Upon graduation, Harper was assigned to the Lafayette Post, where he primarily patrolled Carroll and White counties. Over the course of his career, Harper served as a Corporal, a Sergeant, and, in 2001, was promoted to the rank of Detective at the Lafayette District—a position he held until his retirement.

Throughout his tenure, Detective Harper played a vital role in numerous high-profile investigations across the district and the state. He served on the Tactical Intervention Platoon, the Indiana State Police Cold Case Team, was a Field Training Officer and Radar Instructor, and was an integral part of the Delphi Double Homicide Task Force.

Detective Harper was instrumental in investigating countless cases involving homicides, missing persons, and crimes against children. His dedication extended across all eight counties of the Lafayette District and beyond, leaving a lasting impact on communities and the lives of those he served.

In recognition of his exemplary service and outstanding investigative work, Detective Harper was named the Indiana State Police Detective of the Year at the 2025 Indiana State Police Annual Awards Ceremony. This prestigious award is presented to one detective each year who demonstrates exceptional investigative skills, leadership, professionalism, and dedication to justice. Harper’s ability to solve complex cases, his tireless commitment to victims, and his mentorship of younger detectives made him the clear choice for this honor. His contributions have set a standard for investigative excellence across the entire department.

“Detective Harper’s dedication, work ethic, and commitment to victims and their families have been a model for all of us,” said First Sergeant Steve Buckley, Lafayette District Investigative Commander. “Jay is not only an incredible investigator but also a trusted mentor and friend to many within the department. His presence will be greatly missed.”

Detective Harper is a current resident of Tippecanoe County and looks forward to spending more time with family and friends and enjoying a well-deserved retirement.

The Indiana State Police thanks Detective Jay Harper for his 40 years of honorable service and wishes him all the best in his next chapter.