CLAY ZOTZ Two Department of Public Safety troopers, both recent DPS Academy graduates, reported to posts in Freestone county recently to replace two of three troopers who have transferred to new assignments.

Both troopers, Clay Zotz and Kyle Purnell, started in April and will spend their first six months riding with veteran DPS officers.

Zotz, 22, is a native of Wichita Falls, graduated Notre Dame Catholic high school in 2004 and earned a bachelor of science degree in political science at Texas A&M University in 2008.

On completing his college degree, Zotz enrolled in the DPS Academy and graduated March 27.

"I knew I wanted to join the DPS and attend A&M," he says. "They did not have a criminal justice degree, so I got a political science degree."

Zotz is partnered with Trooper Fred Thornton as his training officer.

Outside work, the new trooper enjoys hunting, fishing and sports.

Purnell, 22, is a native of Houston, graudated Jersey Village high school and earned a bachelor of science degree in criminal justice at Sam Houston State University.

KYLE PURNELL He entered the DPS academy shortly after graduating college.

"I always wanted to help people and enforce the laws," Purnell says of his career choice.

While a student at SHSU, he worked two years with Texas Department of Criminal Justice in Huntsville.

Outside work, the new trooper enjoys fishing, hunting, sports and spending time with family and friends.

He is partnered with Trooper Michael Adams.