MERIDIAN — Idaho State Police's Western Command has new leadership that the agency has promoted from within. 

Mike Winans, who has been with ISP since 2001, has been elevated to major from his previous role of captain, ISP announced Thursday. As major, Winans will "oversee agencywide investigations, executive protection and Capitol security, District 3 operations, and the Idaho State Police Forensic Services (ISPFS) system," ISP said in a news release. "As a member of ISP’s executive leadership team, he will help guide statewide operations, strategic initiatives, and organizational priorities while supporting ISP’s mission of protecting Idaho’s communities."

Winans was promoted to captain in 2024, when he assumed command of ISP's District 3, which encompasses the western Idaho counties of Ada, Adams, Boise, Canyon, Elmore, Gem, Owyhee, Payette, Valley and Washington. 

Prior to that, Winans served in various roles for the agency, including executive protection, drug recognition expert, patrol sergeant and patrol lieutenant, among others.

He began his law enforcement career in 1997 with the Blackfoot Police Department. 

“Major Winans has built his career by earning the trust of those around him through integrity, humility, and an unwavering commitment to serving others,” ISP Director Col. Bill Gardiner said in the release. “He understands every aspect of our mission because he has lived it throughout his career. His experience, character, and ability to develop strong teams make him exceptionally well prepared to lead Western Command and help guide the future of this agency.”

On his promotion, Winans said, "I’ve been fortunate to learn from exceptional leaders throughout my career, and I look forward to building on that foundation while supporting our employees and continuing to provide the professional public safety services Idahoans expect from the Idaho State Police."