Each year, the Forest Preserves of Cook County Police Department gathers to reflect and recognize the extraordinary dedication of its officers, men and women who serve quietly, consistently and often behind the scenes. This year’s annual awards ceremony was a powerful reminder that professionalism, compassion and perseverance are at the heart of everything they do.
“Behind every ribbon and commendation is a moment when our officers chose service, teamwork and perseverance,” says Forest Preserves First Deputy Chief of Police Samuel Muñiz. “I am incredibly proud of the professionalism and dedication shown by every honoree.”
One of the evening’s highlights was the Department Commendation awarded to Detective Hiral Nieves for her exceptional investigative work following a violent aggravated battery at the Billy Caldwell Golf Course. Through days of meticulous follow-up, coordinating witness interviews, tracking medical updates, collecting evidence and ultimately securing a confession, Detective Nieves ensured accountability and justice. Her persistence and professionalism exemplify the highest standards of the department.
The ceremony also honored acts that demonstrate the power of teamwork in critical moments for a Lifesaving Award. On October 16, 2025, 13 officers played a role in the successful rescue of an 80-year-old woman with dementia who had been missing for nearly 24 hours near Big Bend Lake. Navigating dense terrain with a K-9, ATVs, aerial support and coordinated ground teams, officers worked tirelessly through challenging conditions. The woman was ultimately found alive by Officer Maria Devogelear and Officer Jessica Hettiger, alongside K-9 Cook, whose efforts directly led to her rescue and medical care. Their determination brought a family back together and underscored the lifesaving impact of coordinated police work.
Forest Preserves Honorees: Commander Charles Ghiloni, Sergeant Grzegorz Kawecki, Officer Maria Devogelear, Officer Jessica Hettiger and K-9 Cook, Officer Perry Kalogeris, Officer Dorota Lepionka, Officer Charlie Hall, Officer Bobby Garza, Officer Patrick Gallagher, Officer Erdenekhulgen Bayarsaikhan, Detective Hiral Nieves, Officer Kevin Martin, Officer Michael Midor
Another Lifesaving Award recognized a multi-agency response to a mental health crisis in Tinley Park on September 1, 2025. As daylight faded and urgency increased, officers, deputies, aviators, telecommunicators and partner agencies worked seamlessly together. Teams deployed K-9s, drones, ATVs, air support and organized ground searches to locate a 45-year-old man in distress, render aid and ensure his safe transport for medical treatment. This effort highlighted not only tactical skill, but also deep compassion and professionalism across agencies and disciplines.
Forest Preserves Honorees: Sergeant Patrick Kobal, Officer Adrian Nazar, Officer Michael Roman, Officer Joanne Dooley, Officer Issa Khalil, Officer Kevin Martin, K-9 Officer Devin Ennis and K-9 Bonnie
Together, these stories represent more than individual achievements. They reflect a department committed to service, collaboration and protecting life. This year’s honorees remind us that behind every badge is a person willing to go the extra mile, stay the extra hour and do whatever it takes to keep the Forest Preserves and communities safe.