Community heroes honored for outstanding dedication to road safety and public service

Monroe County, New York – On March 26, 2025, community members, law enforcement officers, and traffic safety advocates gathered at the Shadow Lake Golf and Racquet Club for the annual STOP-DWI & Traffic Safety Board Awards Luncheon. This event honors those who have gone above and beyond in ensuring the safety of Monroe County’s roads. Hosted by the Monroe County STOP-DWI program, the luncheon serves as a platform to recognize individuals and organizations dedicated to preventing impaired driving and promoting traffic safety.

The ceremony commenced with a warm welcome from Richard V. Tantalo, Monroe County’s Director of Public Safety. Monroe County Executive Adam Bello then addressed the audience, emphasizing the importance of community efforts in maintaining safe roadways. This year’s keynote speaker was Assistant District Attorney Merrick Sadler, Chief of the Vehicular Crimes Bureau at the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office, who spoke about the ongoing efforts to combat impaired driving and ensure justice for victims of traffic-related crimes.

One of the most anticipated moments of the event was the presentation of the Top Cop Award, which recognizes a law enforcement officer for exceptional dedication to impaired driving prevention through education, arrests, and training. This year’s recipient was Deputy Gerald Ludwig from the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office. His unwavering commitment to road safety has made a significant impact in reducing the dangers of impaired driving.

The Jim Pond Lifetime Achievement Award, given to individuals who have dedicated years of service to promoting traffic safety, was awarded to Ronald Hinz from Learn 2 Ride, Inc. With over 20 years on the Monroe County Traffic Safety Board, Hinz has been instrumental in shaping policies and educational programs that have saved lives and prevented accidents.

Read also: Governor Hochul announces successful completion of massive sixty six point four million dollar bridge replacement project improving Bronx River Parkway infrastructure

Several individuals and organizations were honored with Traffic Safety Board Community Service Awards for their extraordinary contributions beyond their professional responsibilities. The honorees included Lieutenant Stephen Sinaguglia of the Irondequoit Fire District, the Henrietta Fire District, Erin Agnello from the Injury Free Coalition for Kids at URMC, and Deputy Khadija Fong from the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office. Their dedication to fostering safer road conditions has not gone unnoticed.

The Mark Tuohey Jr. Award, which recognizes individuals who bring innovative approaches to traffic safety, was awarded to Rochester City Council Member Mitch Gruber. His leadership in traffic safety initiatives and policy development has been crucial in advancing public awareness and infrastructure improvements.

Certificates of Merit were awarded to individuals whose contributions to traffic safety were nominated by their peers. These recipients, including Officer Joice Barcellos from the Brighton Police Department and several deputies and officers from various agencies, have demonstrated outstanding commitment to the cause.

Recognizing entire law enforcement agencies, the STOP-DWI Agency Appreciation Awards highlighted departments with the highest percentage increase in DWI and DWAI arrests relative to their size. The Fairport Police Department, Webster Police Department, and Monroe County Sheriff’s Office received honors for their tireless efforts in keeping impaired drivers off the roads.

Leadership Awards were given to officers who have exemplified excellence in impaired driving prevention and community engagement. Among the recipients were Officer James Thuerck and Officer Joseph Bonacci from the Rochester Police Department, Officer Isaac Lenhard from the Greece Police Department, and Deputy Michael Bentham from the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office. Their proactive approach to law enforcement has made a significant difference in road safety.

Read also: Credit card fraud mastermind behind CardReady LLC sentenced to seven years for deceiving thousands of victims

The Coordinator’s Choice Award, presented to an individual for innovative efforts in removing impaired drivers from the roads, was awarded to Officer Jason Lathrop from the Rochester Police Department. His strategic enforcement initiatives and dedication to the STOP-DWI program have contributed to reducing the number of dangerous drivers on Monroe County’s streets.

STOP-DWI Certificates of Appreciation were given to individuals who have been nominated by their colleagues for their unwavering commitment to impaired driving prevention. Officers from various police departments, probation officers, and state troopers were among those honored. Their contributions to law enforcement and community safety play a vital role in reducing traffic-related injuries and fatalities.

The STOP-DWI program, established by the New York State Legislature in 1981, is entirely funded through fines paid by convicted impaired drivers. Its mission is to reduce traffic crashes caused by alcohol and drug use through local initiatives. The Monroe County Traffic Safety Board works in collaboration with law enforcement, community organizations, and safety advocates to develop and implement strategies that protect residents and visitors.

Community involvement remains a key factor in preventing impaired driving and promoting traffic safety. Residents are encouraged to plan ahead and make responsible choices, such as designating a sober driver or using alternative transportation options when under the influence. By raising awareness and fostering a culture of accountability, Monroe County can continue making strides toward safer roads for everyone.

To learn more about Monroe County’s Traffic Safety and STOP-DWI programs, visit www.monroecounty.gov/ts.