Beyond the Badge: Police Services Hero of the Year Awards 2023

Last spring, the Police Association of Ontario (PAO) was thrilled to announce the winners of their 8th annual Police Services Hero of the Year Awards. Awards were based on the public nominating exemplary police personnel who went beyond the call of duty to protect and serve their communities.

The POA’s Awards Committee (members-at-large, President, Board Chair, and civilian association staff) welcomed the challenging task of selecting the winners from more than 240 deserving nominations.

Recently, the PAO travelled across Ontario to celebrate the outstanding finalists and winners in their own communities.

Windsor

Hosted by President Kent Rice and the Windsor Police Association on October 3.

Retired Constable Terry Dodich (Finalist) 2023 Extra Mile Award

“A uniform or civilian police service employee who has done a one-time, extraordinary act of kindness or bravery”

Recently retired, Terry’s 30-year journey with Windsor Police Service is a testament to his dedication. He also volunteered as a peer counsellor to colleagues and mentored youth to encourage them to make positive life decisions. He was instrumental in solving Canada’s oldest cold case – the 1971 murder of six-year-old Ljubica Topic – using Investigative Genetic Genealogy. Terry exemplifies dedication, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to justice.

Constable Jeff Loewen (Finalist) 2023 Community Role Model

“A police officer or civilian police service employee who, in their free time, has made a notable difference in or contribution to their community over a prolonged period of time”

Jeff has dedicated 30 years of service to the Windsor Police Service. He has also coached a local high school football team for over 20 years. Jeff’s nominator, Brian Cyncora, Chapter President of Sleep in Heavenly Peace – Windsor, describes him as an exemplary police officer, serving his community with pride, dignity, compassion and honour. Jeff volunteers with this organization that provides 350+ children with a space for a peaceful night’s sleep. Bedless no more.

Sergeant Nathan Harris (Finalist) 2023 Police Hero Honour Roll

“Pays homage to a police officer or civilian police service employee who has made a significant impact over the past decade”

Starting his policing career in 2000 with the London Police Service, he returned to his hometown of Amherstburg in 2001 to join the former Amherstburg Police Service, now Windsor Police Service.

Nathan is also a volunteer paramedic and youth basketball coach. An inspiration to his community, he also embodies resilience. Nathan did not let adversity keep him down despite a traumatic brain injury and serious injuries throughout his body. With hard work and extensive physiotherapy, he learned to walk again and fully returned to work.