BEDFORD- The Bedford Noon Lions Club proudly honored exemplary law enforcement officers at their annual Officer of the Year Awards ceremony. Recognizing dedication and valor in service, the event showcased officers who have gone above and beyond the call of duty to ensure the safety and well-being of the community.
Officers from the Bedford Police Department, Lawrence County Sheriff’s Department, DNR, and the Indiana State Police Bloomington Post were honored. The officers selected by their respective departments showcased the integrity and professionalism required by their duty and repeatedly went above and beyond what they were tasked to do.
Lieutenant Matt Pearcy with DNR presented the first recipient of the evening: Officer Paul Crockett. Officer Crockett “works very hard and doesn’t expect recognition,” Pearcy said. Crockett takes on several important responsibilities, including swift water rescue, diving, cave rescue, and teaches hunter’s education to local youth.
Greg Bucher took the podium on behalf of the Indiana State Police. Trooper Ben Burris was honored for the Bloomington Post this year, with Bucher saying, “Trooper Burris serves exceptionally well with professionalism both on and off duty.” Burris “could have been Trooper of the Year for all 3 that he has been with the Post.” Bucher added.
Sheriff Greg Day introduced the Deputy who received the award from the Department, Robin Compton. Sheriff Day praised Compton for his positive attitude and work ethic. “(Compton) completes very thorough investigations,” Day said. Whenever he works on something, I don’t have to worry about it.” Compton was a dispatcher until 2021, when he became a deputy, and has been an example of exemplary service since.
Jarrett Tedrow was the final recipient of the day, representing the Bedford Police Department. Chief Terry Moore praised Tedrow as a positive influence on the force, saying he “always wants to do more for his community.” Moore spoke about how Tedrow always places among the top in department performance metrics. Tedrow was a field training officer at the department for years, completed training, and is now an accident reconstructionist.
Thank you to the recipients and law enforcement officers who protect our communities, keeping us and our families safe.
