2022 Nominees

Ben Bertrend, Ontario Provincial Police

I want to nominate Officer Ben Bertrand of Quinte West OPP. I was at one of the most difficult times in my life. I found it difficult to accept that I was in an abusive situation as I had several people very close to me experience similar situations. I was indecisive about leaving as much as I wanted to stay in hopes that he would change, I realized that wasn't going to happen because he didn't want to. I was feeling hopeless, stuck, alone and afraid. I was tired of the situation, thinking I had no way out and that there was no hope. To be honest, it took me awhile before I knew clearly that this was the right decision. It was 2019 when I called Quinte West OPP to let them know I was ready to leave and that I needed their help. Officer Bertrand came to my rescue. He was very courteous, he made the process quick and he made me feel safe. Without his assistance, I may not be here today. You are my hero. Thank you for your service.

Marc Taraso, Halton Regional Police Service (11)

I see Marc fairly often on Twitter and enjoy the pictures and commentary he posts. He catches so many general everyday infractions in the HTA and highlights what they have done wrong and what it is going to cost them. I feel he is promoting law enforcement well and getting the message out to be a safe driver and use proper road etiquette when sharing the road with others. He also interacts with Twitter followers when he is asked a question, once again showing a positive image of the Police Service.

Wes King, Durham Regional Police Service (14)

I work with Wes's wife and both are non-stop heroes, giving back to their community. I've known Wes for years and his dedication to not only his work, but also the difference he makes in the community and the work he does with those affected by mental health is so admirable. The endless hour he works, spends training, holidays he works and time away from his family/loved ones to keep us all safe in this crazy world deserves a hero award as he and his brother both are unsung heroes!!!

Marc Taraso, Halton Regional Police Service (11)

This officer has made a huge impression on building the awareness of the need for road safety in Halton, and brings his skills and knowledge to media platforms to enhance this awareness with skill and pride! Very pleased he is working in our neighbourhoods keeping us all grounded and safe! The noisemaker reduction program outlines another area where his efforts are appreciated by us all in getting these individuals the right punishment for their errors of judgement. Great officer, worthy of any awards handed out!

Hannah Elkington, Durham Regional Police Service (18)

It is great to have a female K9 officer in our Durham Regional Police force. Young girls will have a role model to look up to and realize they can be the best version of themselves. She epitomizes what beyond the call of duty means. Her community involvement is well known by Durham residents and DRP officers.

Wes King, Durham Regional Police Service (14)

Wes King is absolutely incredible - the definition of a true hero, catching bad guys and being the good guy at charity events. He and his K9 partner go above and beyond to keep our community safe! What a better way to thank him then to nominate him for this!!

Richard Giroux, Ottawa Police Service

In 1999, after a seven-year career as a paramedic, Richard knew from experience the life saving capabilities of the Automatic External Defibrillator (AED). He approached his employer and the CEO of the McDonald Cartier International Airport (MCIA) where he worked and presented them with a plan to introduce AEDs inside the terminal. After months of presentations to Health and Safety Officers, lawyers and others involved in the decision-making process, it was approved. In 2000, the MCIA was the first Canadian airport to implement a defibrillator program. 

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Terra Nevard, Ontario Provincial Police (7)

Terra is a member of the Ontario Provincial Police and is assigned to the Child Sexual Exploitation Unit, working on the Victim ID team. Terra spends her day going through images of child sexual abuse, looking for the unseen clues. Terra works with police services around the world and has been credited with saving victims of child sexual abuse. Terra and her team are superheroes without capes.

Wes King, Durham Regional Police Service (14)

Officer King is hard working, always catching the bad guys and volunteering when needed. I have seen him help people who have mental health issues and he goes above and beyond the call of duty. He deserves to be rewarded for his hard work and dedication.

Marc Taraso, Halton Regional Police Service (11)

Marc is a hero because he is relentless in keeping the community safe from unsafe driving behavior. Marc also provides education for drivers and the public.