On Wednesday, the Vernon Police Department in Vernon, Connecticut, celebrated the achievements of its officers, naming Tyler Wallace as Officer of the Year for his exceptional contributions in 2025. Wallace, who has served in the department for five years and previously worked as an emergency medical technician, was recognized for saving lives and effectively handling mental health crises. His proactive policing efforts also led to the arrest of a drug dealer and the removal of firearms from the streets. Chief Marc Petruzzi praised the dedication and professionalism of the department, highlighting Wallace's role as a tremendous asset to both the police force and the community. In addition to Wallace, other officers received awards for various commendable actions, including the arrest of suspects involved in domestic violence and armed carjacking incidents. The awards were determined by the police department’s awards committee, emphasizing the department's commitment to excellence and community service.