Press Release from Idaho State Police
MERIDIAN, Idaho – The Idaho State Police (ISP) proudly announces Colonel Bill Gardiner’s appointment as its new Director. A native of Burley, Idaho, with 25 years of service, Colonel Gardiner has held numerous critical roles within the agency, demonstrating unwavering dedication to public safety.
Colonel Gardiner began his career in 1999 as a Patrol Division trooper serving in Idaho Falls. In 2001, he transitioned to Boise, joining the Commercial Vehicle Safety Division as a Sergeant. He worked closely with truck-driving schools and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration on the Safety Audit Program.
Promoted to Lieutenant in 2006, Colonel Gardiner managed security for the Idaho Governor, Legislature, and Supreme Court, led the ISP Honor Guard, and developed security plans for high-profile events. By 2009, he became Statewide Communications Captain, overseeing ISP dispatch centers, serving as an Ethics instructor, and coordinated security during the 2009 Special Olympic World Winter Games.
In 2013, as Captain for District 3, Colonel Gardiner oversaw law enforcement operations in Western Idaho. His leadership continued to shine through his work as ISP Area Commander in 2017, managing operations across multiple regions and leading specialized units, including ISP SWAT and the Executive Protection Section.
Colonel Gardiner’s expertise was further recognized in 2020 when he was appointed ISP Deputy Director and Chief of Staff. In this pivotal role, he was crucial in legislative drafting, budget management, and policy development to further enhance the future of ISP.
Governor Brad Little’s selection of Colonel Gardiner is a testament to his ongoing efforts and work. Colonel Gardiner will focus on the critical issues of human trafficking, combating fentanyl, and enhancing public safety for the people of Idaho. His extensive qualifications, including being a certified ethics instructor, a graduate of the FBI National Academy (Class #238), and advanced degrees from the University of Oklahoma and Idaho State University, make him the ideal candidate for this important role.
The Idaho State Police proudly welcomes Colonel Bill Gardiner as our new leader. We are confident in his commitment to continue protecting and serving the people of Idaho with integrity, and we look forward to the positive impact he will make in his new role.
