We would like to nominate Susan Wolak as a Police Hero. Sue works with Halton Regional Police Service at the front desk as a civilian employee where she has been for 30 years. Before her son was born, she was a patrol officer. She has always had the tenacity and confidence to step up and be an advocate for others while at work and outside of work. Part of the altruistic nature Sue embodies is one that allows her to help and offer needed services throughout each and every work day.

On September 12, 2019, a 22 year old male began stabbing pedestrians at a downtown Kingston intersection. Constable Fil Wisniak - a 10 year veteran of the Kingston Police - was on foot when the call came in. Constable Wisniak responded to the call, running 2 blocks to the incident. Upon his arrival, one man had been fatally stabbed and another man was being attacked. Constable Wisniak intervened without hesitation - the male was about to attack a woman who was attempting to provide aid to one of the victims. 

I am nominating Cst. Arbic as he is an amazing officer and he goes above and beyond the call of duty. The one way I can show this is when I was going for my G1 license... I needed a letter from a guarantor and, since I have known Andrew since like grade 4, he was one person I contacted. He said yes and, because of him, I was able to get my license. He is always good when working with youth encouraging them to do better in life.

I would like to nominate Cst. Jeff Lalonde for Police Hero - Community Role Model. Not only does Jeff work as an officer for Cornwall Police Service for over 20 years, but he has shown time and time again that he is truly a part of our community. Jeff has volunteered for various agencies in Cornwall since his early teenage years. This is a tradition that he has carried on during his 20 years as an officer. Jeff not only volunteered but has also lead teams of volunteers for various community fundraisers.

I’d like to nominate Sergeant Tara Vivian for the On-Duty Difference Maker award. Sgt. Vivian is an enthusiastic and caring leader. Whether she is engaging the public at community events, or backing her officers on patrol, she consistently shows respect and empathy to everyone she meets. Sgt. Vivian takes a proactive approach to policing, and has shown tremendous adaptability through various roles within HRPS to provide her with a wider perspective and capacity to engage members of the community in a positive way. She is the definition of a team player, and while her dedication and knowledge to all things policing makes her a role model to many, her kindness and warm spirit also makes her a valued friend.

Constable Evan Harrison, you are an exceptional human leader towards us adults and all our kids. In between keeping the streets safe and volunteering at hospitals, coaching sports and schools you are also a great family man. You care about others like they are your family. My kids look up to you and are proud of what you so everyday. Thank you for the hard work everyday!

When reflecting on the notion of police hero, what comes to mind is more than just the officer who “saves the day” and “catches the bad guy.” To serve, protect and create a safer Cornwall is an obvious priority for Detective Constable Darrell Blakely. A victim-centred approach is at the core of his police work, and is evidenced by the high level of respect and professionalism he displays for children, youth, and families in our community, even during the most difficult of cases.

I am best friends with an officer on the Niagara Regional Police force. She went through a very challenging time for several years. Many times, she mentioned how integral Sandy was in her recovery and her eventual return to unrestricted full-time duty. Over the couple of years of this process, I remember multiple conversations including how much love and support my friend was receiving from Sandy.

When my 14 year old granddaughter was taken to the emergency room for a drug overdose, I was out of my mind because it was a 20 year old who gave her the drugs. Constable Mounfield was amazing at calming me down and without his skills of deescalating my reaction, I possibly would have made some wrong decisions. He handled me with care but his authoritative firmness kept me level. He is amazing.

I would like to nominate my daughter, Sergeant Sherri Baltzer. She is a hard-working officer and worked very hard to get to the position of Sergeant. Sherri involves herself in all aspects of the police force. She is constantly helping others to live the best that they can. She and her husband run a golf tournament every year to raise money to help all EMS, police, firefighters, and ambulance families in need of medical help. The funds raised have helped many of these families. She is selfless in helping anyone to succeed. She is so worthy of recognition.