Bill Gardiner to lead Idaho State Police as new colonel

Boise, Idaho - Governor Brad Little announced today he appointed Bill Gardiner to lead the Idaho State Police (ISP) as its new colonel and director following the recent retirement of longtime director Ked Wills.

"Bill Gardiner will lead Idaho State Police with integrity, just like his predecessor, Ked Wills. Bill is a native Idahoan who brings a tremendous about of experience and leadership to the position. I look forward to working closely with Bill and the ISP team to keep fentanyl off our streets, curb human trafficking, support border security efforts, and keep Idaho one of the safest states in the country," Governor Little said.

Gardiner has been serving as a lieutenant colonel and deputy director and chief of staff for ISP since 2020. He is a native of Burley who has been on the ISP force for 25 years, serving in roles that ranged from trooper to district commander to executive protection in the Office of the Governor, and many other positions. Gardiner earned his bachelor's degree from Idaho State University and a master's degree from the University of Oklahoma. He is a proud graduate of the FBI National Academy and currently serves on the FBI National Academy Associates National Board.

"I am honored to step into the role of Director of the Idaho State Police, an agency with a proud tradition of excellence and service to the community. I look forward to continuing our mission of protecting and serving the people of Idaho with integrity and professionalism, focusing on Governor Little's Esto Perpetua initiative. This includes addressing critical issues such as human trafficking, combating fentanyl, and enhancing public safety. I extend my heartfelt thanks to Colonel Wills for his outstanding leadership and dedicated service. His contributions have significantly shaped ISP into the respected organization it is today, and I am committed to continuing his legacy of service," Gardiner said.

Wills, a second-generation ISP trooper, will retire August 16 and has been a dedicated member of the agency since 1996, having served as colonel since 2017.

"Ked's unwavering commitment to public safety and his visionary approach to law enforcement have greatly impacted our state. We appreciate his many years of service and wish him all the best in his well-deserved retirement," Governor Little said.

"It has been an honor and a privilege to serve the citizens of Idaho and work alongside the brave men and women of the Idaho State Police. I have witnessed this agency's remarkable progress and evolution throughout my career. Together, we have upheld the highest law enforcement standards, ensuring the safety and security of our communities. I am immensely proud of what we have accomplished together and am confident that the ISP will continue to thrive and serve with excellence," Wills said.

An official photo of Gardiner can be found here: https://gov.idaho.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/bill-gardiner-scaled.jpg