Police Services Hero of the Year Awards 2023

Hamilton

Hosted by President Jaimi Bannon and the Hamilton Police Association on October 27.

Special Constable Supervisor

Hannah Demik

(Finalist) 2023 Civilian On-Duty Difference Maker Award

“A civilian police service employee who has gone above and beyond the expectations of the job while on-duty”

Hannah became the youngest person at age 32 to be promoted to supervisor of the Hamilton police special constables. She oversaw a team of three dozen officers responsible for prisoner escorts to the John Sopinka Courthouse, earning her colleagues’ respect for her exceptional leadership and ability to unite people.

Only a year ago Hannah tragically died from heart failure. This award honours her memory and highlights her outstanding character, leadership, and unwavering commitment to law enforcement with the Hamilton Police Service. Immensely proud of their daughter’s accomplishments, parents Pete and Selina Demik accepted her award. Hannah’s close friends, Rebecca Morrison and Sandra Guiliani shed more light on her inspiring journey.

In a heartwarming tribute to Hannah, friends started a fundraiser for the U15 Hamilton Hawks girls’ hockey team. Hannah, a passionate hockey player, had been associated with various local hockey leagues. The Hamilton Police Association matched the community’s generous donation.

Constable Robert Lawther

(Finalist) 2023 Uniform On-Duty Difference Maker Award

“A civilian police service employee who has gone above and beyond the expectations of the job while on-duty”

He has provided unwavering support and care to a fellow first responder facing post-traumatic stress disorder. He was hired in 2013 and is currently assigned to Division One Patrol on C Squad. Robert responded to multiple 911 calls for their safety in their most challenging moments, showing genuine concern and compassion.

This individual was his nominator Max Power, a Primary Care Paramedic with the Hamilton Paramedic Service. He shared a deeply personal story during the ceremony. He credits Robert with saving his life at a time when he had reached a point of despair and doubted his ability to continue serving as a first responder.

Max’s story is a powerful testament and underscores the importance of support and camaraderie within the first responder community. It reminds us all that heroes come in many forms, often quietly working behind the scenes to make a difference in the lives of others.

Constable James Durka (Winner) 2023 Community Role Model Award

“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”

A police officer with the Hamilton Police Service for 20 years, James is a role model in his community both on and off duty. Six years ago, James’ wife Jessica was diagnosed with cancer. He cared for her, all while performing his duty as a detective for the Hamilton Police Service.

When Jessica’s cancer was in remission, the couple decided to pay it forward by growing pumpkins at her family farm in Waterford and selling them at a roadside market they named the Juravinski Cancer Centre Pumpkin Patch. James and Jessica, together with fellow officers, have raised $245,000 for the Juravinski Cancer Centre in Hamilton.

James was recognized in the spring at the annual gala hosted by the York Regional Police Association in Aurora. Guests included family, friends, colleagues, government dignitaries, Pat Mandy, Chair of the Hamilton Police Service Board, and Hamilton Police Service Chief Frank Bergen.

For a full list of Award Winners and Finalists, please visit: policehero.ca

Nominations for the 2024 Police Services Hero of the Year Awards open in February.

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