Officer of the Year for Hiram Police Department, Officer Joseph Cross

Hiram Chief of Police, Todd VandeZande, took the podium and thanked the Rotary Club for their continued yearly support and the opportunity to highlight an officer that exemplifies dedication to the community. Chief VandeZande announced that Officer Joseph Cross was selected as "Officer of the Year" and will receive the "Service Above Self Award".
Chief VandeZande explained that unlike the PC Sheriff's Department the Hiram Police was not on a call to call basis, meaning discretionary time for police officers was focused on safety and traffic enforcement. The Police Chief explained, though sometimes unpopular as people don't like receiving traffic citations, citizens of the community are most likely to face a traffic related accident/incident than any other form of emergency. Police Chief also reminded everyone that criminals such as Timothy McVeigh and Eric Rudolph were both apprehended by police officers engaged in traffic enforcement and regular patrol.
During the course of traffic enforcement officers usually receive complaints. Not so with Officer Cross, the Chief explained that he had received compliments from people receiving citations from Officer Cross. This is highly unusual, but emphasizes the compassion that this officer serves the community with. Along with his supervisor, Sgt. Joshua Lonergan, these officers have consistently devoted themselves to building respect with the community. Police Chief VandeZande expressed gratitude to Officer Cross with a handshake as he received the award.

Lt. Brian Acree, Sgt. Joshua Lonergan, Officer Joseph Cross, Hiram Chief of Police Todd VandeZande, Lt. Mike O'Neal