Colonel Ernest E. Garcia, Superintendent of the Kansas Highway Patrol, has announced that Master Trooper Brent Hemken was promoted to lieutenant on December 11, 2011.

Hemken began his career with the Patrol on Jan. 4, 2004, as a recruit trooper in the Training Academy. Upon completion of his training, Hemken was stationed in Larned. On Jan. 16, 2011, Hemken was promoted to master trooper, still in Larned. With his promotion to lieutenant, Hemken will serve as a field supervisor for troopers in Larned and the surrounding areas.

Hemken is a graduate of La Crosse High School. He earned an associate’s degree in criminal justice from Barton County Community College. Prior to his career with the Patrol, Hemken served as manager of Applebee’s Grill and Bar in Great Bend.