Board Members

meet our Executive Board

President

Lonnie Faircloth

Lonnie Faircloth is a dedicated law enforcement professional with a distinguished career spanning over two decades. A member of the West Virginia Troopers Association since 1999, Lonnie has consistently demonstrated leadership, expertise, and an unwavering commitment to public service.

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Currently serving as the Assistant Detachment Commander in Martinsburg, Lonnie oversees critical operations, ensuring the safety and well-being of the community. In addition to this role, he commands the Explosive Response Team, where his specialized training and strategic leadership are crucial in managing high-stakes situations.

Throughout his tenure, Lonnie has been an active and influential member of the West Virginia Troopers Association. He served as the Troop 2 representative, where he advocated for his peers and worked to address their concerns. His dedication and vision led to his election as Vice President of the association in 2022, a role in which he continues to champion the interests of law enforcement officers across the state.

Lonnie’s career is marked by his commitment to excellence, his passion for service, and his ability to lead in challenging circumstances. He is a trusted figure within the law enforcement community and a respected advocate for his colleagues.

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Vice President

Zachary Haught

Zach Haught proudly serves as your Vice President. A dedicated member of law enforcement, he is part of the 71st graduating class of the West Virginia State Police Academy. With a wealth of experience, Zach serves as a Field Training Officer (FTO), recruiter, and crime scene specialist, contributing his skills to the betterment of his department and community.

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Passionate about building strong relationships between law enforcement and the public, Zach actively participates in community events to foster trust and collaboration. His commitment to public service and community engagement makes him an invaluable asset to the WVTA.

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Secretary/Treasurer

John W. Smith, Jr.

JW Smith is a seasoned law enforcement professional with over 31 years of experience in federal and state criminal investigations. He retired as a West Virginia State Police Criminal Investigator after dedicating three decades to public service. Currently, he serves as a Senior Financial Analyst/Investigator for FSA Federal, providing investigative services to the United States Attorney’s Office in the Northern District of West Virginia.

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During his distinguished career, JW spent 20 years as a criminal investigator, including approximately 10 years assigned to the United States Attorney’s Office Public Corruption Task Force in the Northern District of West Virginia. In this role, he conducted complex investigations into a wide array of public corruption-related crimes, demonstrating his expertise in uncovering and prosecuting unethical and illegal conduct.

JW has also served as a member of a multi-agency drug task force, where he led investigations targeting criminal organizations involved in the distribution of controlled substances. His extensive experience includes collaboration with numerous federal agencies, including the DEA, FBI, ATF, IRS, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security, and the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General. Additionally, he has worked closely with state, county, and municipal law enforcement agencies to investigate and address both federal and state criminal violations.

Throughout his career, he has been recognized for his dedication to justice, his meticulous investigative skills, and his commitment to serving the public with integrity.

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meet our board of directors

Troop 0

David Simerly

Bio coming soon.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Chumley is a dedicated member of various law enforcement organizations and clubs that provide support to fellow officers, first responders, and members of the community. Through these affiliations, he has worked to foster camaraderie among public safety professionals and enhance resources and assistance for those in need.

A Message from Vice President Lonnie Faircloth:
I would like to take the opportunity to introduce myself. I am a 22-year member of the Department and the Troopers Association. I am currently assigned to the Explosive Response Team and the Detachment Commander of the Martinsburg Detachment. I was the Troop 2 representative for a short period before being elected to the position of Vice President. As Vice-President, I would like to have an open line of communications with all members who have any questions, as well as address what the Association is attempting to accomplish during the Legislative session for the West Virginia State Police. I can assure you that the Board Members for the West Virginia Troopers Association are working diligently to make any improvements for the members of the West Virginia State Police.

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Troop 1

Drew Stallings

Bio coming soon.

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troop 2

Daniel Smith

Trooper Daniel Smith is a graduate of the 72nd West Virginia State Police Cadet Class, joining the State Police in October 2023. He has served as a Field Training Officer since joining the agency, demonstrating a commitment to mentoring and developing new troopers.

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Before joining the State Police, Trooper Smith worked with the Martinsburg Police Department from October 2020 to October 2023. During his tenure, he was a member of the Special Response Team (SRT) and the Drug Interdiction Team, focusing on high-risk operations and keeping illegal narcotics out of the community.

Trooper Smith holds an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Blue Ridge Community College. He has always had a heart for people, fellow law enforcement officers, and his community, striving each day to serve with integrity and dedication.

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troop 3

Sam Shahan

Sam Shahan began his career with the West Virginia State Police in 2013. Throughout his tenure, he has served with dedication and professionalism, being stationed in both Randolph and Upshur Counties, while also working in Braxton and Barbour Counties.

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A committed law enforcement officer, Sam has specialized training in Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement (ARIDE), which has equipped him to effectively combat impaired driving and ensure roadway safety. His exceptional service has been recognized through the receipt of two Life-Saving Medals, a testament to his bravery and quick thinking in critical situations.

Outside of his law enforcement duties, Sam runs a small family farm, where he finds fulfillment in working the land and supporting his family. In his free time, he enjoys hunting, a passion that reflects his deep connection to nature and the outdoors.

Sam’s career and personal life reflect his strong values, commitment to community, and love for family and tradition.

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Troop 4

Kevin Williams

Bio coming soon.

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troop 5

Stuart Swope

Stuart Swope enlisted in the West Virginia State Police in October 2007 and has since built a distinguished career. He serves as a firearms instructor and has contributed to the Honor Guard, Crime Scene Team, and Enlistment Board, showcasing his diverse expertise and dedication to the force.

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Born and raised in Bluefield, WV, Stuart graduated from Bluefield High School before earning a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Marshall University. He has served in Huntington and Logan and is currently the Detachment Commander in Huntington.

Stuart is happily married, with one son and two wonderful stepchildren.

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Troop 6

Steven Wickline

Bio coming soon.

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troop 7

David McMillan

Dave McMillan serves as the Troop 7 (Parkways) Representative for the West Virginia Troopers Association, a position held since 2020. A proud graduate of the prestigious 48th Cadet Class, Dave McMillan has dedicated his career to upholding the values of integrity, service, and commitment that define the West Virginia State Police.

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As the Troop 7 Representative, Dave McMillan works tirelessly to advocate for the interests and well-being of troopers, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs met. Through consistent engagement with fellow officers and a steadfast dedication to the association’s mission, Dave McMillan exemplifies the professionalism and leadership that make the WestVirginia Troopers Association a vital support system for its members.

Dave McMillan’s career reflects a deep commitment to serving the citizens of West Virginia while fostering unity and strength within the law enforcement community.

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troop 8

Matthew Jarvis

Matt Jarvis began his law enforcement career in 2011 as a member of the 61st Cadet Class. During his time in uniform patrol, he served in both Wirt and Wood Counties. He later dedicated eight years as a member of the Troop 4 Crime Scene Team, where he gained extensive experience in investigative procedures and evidence processing.

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In 2020, Matt transitioned to the Troop 8 Polygraph Unit, where he has since been conducting specialized investigative interviews and examinations. His commitment to service and expertise in diverse areas of law enforcement highlight his dedication to upholding justice and supporting his community.

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Retired member

Clint Lantz

Clint Lantz dedicated 25 years to the West Virginia StatePolice, building a distinguished career marked by leadership, expertise, and service. He began his journey at the Hundred and Paden City Detachments, where he served for five years before transitioning to Special Operations as a dual K-9 handler specializing in explosives and patrol, a role he held for eight years.

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Clint’s leadership skills earned him a promotion to Sergeant, where he served as Detachment Commander in Moundsville for five years. He then advanced to 1st Sergeant District Commander for Philippi, a position he held for 14 months, before returning to Moundsville as District Commander. Later, Clint became the BCI Regional Coordinator for Northern West Virginia, a role he held until his retirement.

In 2014, Clint graduated from the prestigious FBI National Academy, further enhancing his leadership and law enforcement knowledge. He also contributed to the development of future law enforcement leaders by teaching leadership courses at the West Virginia State Police Academy.

In addition to his law enforcement career, Clint served 21 years in the military. Thirteen of those years were spent in the U.S. Marine Corps, followed by eight years in the West Virginia Army National Guard. His military and law enforcement careers afforded him the opportunity to travel extensively and experience the beauty of the world.

Clint Lantz’s career is a testament to his dedication, service, and leadership, leaving a lasting impact on the communities he served and the professionals he mentored.

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Disabled/Retired Representative

Joshua Ware

Bio comin soon.

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Business manager

Stephanie Moss

Stephanie Moss joined the West Virginia State Police in March 2020, following a 15-year career in the pharmacy industry. Initially serving as a dispatcher in Romney, she transitioned to an office assistant role a year later and transferred to Jefferson County. During her time there, her passion for law enforcement grew, and she recognized the importance of promoting the positive contributions of law enforcement within the community.

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After transferring to Jefferson County, Stephanie became involved with the West Virginia Troopers Association. She quickly understood the significant impact she could have in shaping public perception of law enforcement and improving the day-to-day lives of West Virginia troopers and their families.

Stephanie holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration. She is married to a wonderful and supportive husband, and together they are proud parents of three children.

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CWA Representative

Elaine Harris

Elaine A. Harris is a lifelong West Virginian whose steadfast dedication to labor advocacy and community service has defined her career for over five decades. Starting as a Directory Assistance Operator for Chesapeake & Potomac Telephone Company in 1973, she quickly joined the Communications Workers of America (CWA), where she rose through its ranks. In 1995, Elaine became the first woman appointed as a CWA International Staff Representative in West Virginia, a historic milestone that paved the way for her enduring leadership in labor rights.

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Elaine played a pivotal role in strengthening the bond between the West Virginia Troopers Association (WVTA) and the CWA, leading to their official affiliation in April 2002. Her efforts included advocating against bills that would have created Citizens Review Boards for law enforcement, successfully preserving protections for State Troopers. Her collaboration with CWA and the West Virginia AFL-CIO led to a series of significant achievements for WVTA members, including salary increases, pension reforms, and improved career progression policies.

Among the highlights of her advocacy:

2002: CWA launched a statewide public campaign, “Undermanned, Underpaid, and Underfunded,” to highlight the needs of State Troopers, coupled with fundraising efforts for Trooper Bobby Elswick.
2004: Legislation lifting political activity restrictions for Troopers out of uniform was passed, alongside measures for lifetime concealed weapon permits for retired Troopers and a career progression bill.
2008: Retirement age reforms were enacted, giving Troopers more flexible options. Additional pay increases were secured as part of a multi-year plan initiated in 2005.
2010-2015: Elaine’s leadership prevented harmful legislative proposals affecting State Police retirement benefits and disability policies while securing pay raises and longevity increases.
2018: A historic 5% pay raise was achieved for State Troopers through HB4145.

Elaine’s broader work as Vice President of the West Virginia AFL-CIO and a CWA lobbyist has included championing fair wages, pensions, and workplace protections across the state. She has been a trusted adviser to state officials, serving on key boards and commissions such as the West Virginia Women’s Commission, the PEIA Finance Board, and the Governor’s Commission on Prison Overcrowding.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Elaine co-founded the United Food Operation (UFO) more than 40 years ago, addressing food insecurity in Kanawha and Putnam Counties. She continues to lead this volunteer-driven organization as its chairwoman, dedicating her time to uplifting families in need.

Elaine’s extraordinary career has been recognized with numerous awards, including the Lafe C. Chafin Lifetime Achievement Award, the Jefferson Award for Public Service, and the Sarah “Mother Blizzard Labor Activist Award.”

Elaine resides in St. Albans with her husband, Steve, and their rescue dog, Scooter. Together, they recently celebrated 50 years of marriage. A devoted member of the First Baptist Church of St. Albans, Elaine serves on the Board of Deaconesses and remains a pillar of her community.

Her unwavering commitment to labor rights and community service continues to inspire and uplift countless individuals across West Virginia. Representing the working men and women of the AFL-CIO and the CWA remains her greatest honor.

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