"Sergeant Owens' actions demonstrate the commitment and selfless actions that New York State's law enforcement officials display each and every day. This award is a fitting recognition for the Sergeant, who demonstrated that he would risk his own life to protect and serve the people of this State," Governor Pataki said.
I have always said that government's greatest responsibility is to protect its people. And this year, we have been reminded many times of the sacrifice our law enforcement officials make to do just that. I am so proud to have this opportunity to present this award to Sergeant Owens on behalf of all New Yorkers," the Governor said.
After Sergeant Owens responded to the bank robbery call, a high-speed chase ensued and ended only after the suspect's vehicle crashed into a utility pole. After the crash, the suspect began firing a shotgun at Sergeant Owens, striking him in the leg. Sergeant Owens, wounded, began firing back and continued to fire until the suspect lay motionless. After the exchange of fire, Sergeant Owens attempted to administer CPR to save the suspect, but was unable to do so.
Ontario County Sheriff Philip C. Povero said, "On April 13, 2005, Sergeant Owens performed an act of exceptional valor and heroism above and beyond the call of duty with unwavering dedication in a life threatening situation. Sgt. Owens is a true hero and protector to the citizens of Ontario County."
Director of New York State Criminal Justice Chauncey G. Parker said, "Sergeant Kevin D. Owens demonstrated tremendous bravery and courage throughout his career as a New York State law enforcement official. Today, we recognize Sergeant Owens as a true professional who represents the highest ideals of what a police officer should be. His actions went above and beyond the call of duty and today we thank him for his dedication."
Ontario County Sheriff Sergeant Kevin D. Owens was born in Portsmouth, VA in 1960. He served in the US Navy from 1981-1985 and was honorably discharged as a Machinist Mate (Nuclear Power) Third Class. After serving in the military, Owens began his law enforcement career in 1987 as an Ontario County Correction Officer, and then as a County Police Officer for the County in 1989. Owens graduated first in his class from the Finger Lakes Law Enforcement Academy in 1989, and then immediately returned to jail duty as a Correction Officer until 1992. In September 1992, Owens was promoted to Jail Sergeant and was then re-hired as a County Police Officer in 1997. In April 2001, Owens was once again promoted to Civil Deputy Sergeant and continues to serve in that role today. Sergeant Owens has been married to his wife Aline for 20 years and has a 24 year old daughter, Amanda, who is currently a Correction Officer with the Ontario County Sheriff's Office.
In addition to the Police Officer of the Year Award received today, Sergeant Owens has been awarded the Ontario County Sheriff's Office Deputy of the Year, the Medal of Valor, the Purple Heart, the Gold Seal Award from the Canandaigua Safety Council, the New York State Deputies' Association Deputy of the Year for 2005, and the New York State Sheriffs' Association Deputy of the Year for 2005.
The Police Officer of the Year Award was established in 1983 to recognize valor representative of the service of all police officers in New York State. Nominations for 2005 were solicited from all law enforcement executives throughout the State and were then submitted to the Selection Committee for review.
In addition, the Selection Committee also awarded Certificates of Exceptional Valor for meritorious acts performed by the following officers:
Brockport Village Police Department
Sergeant Douglas R. Ziegler
Police Officer Michael J. DeToy
Police Officer Paul G. Wheat
Erie County Sheriff's Office Lieutenant James M. McMahon(Retired)
Detective John W. Graham
Deputy Sheriff Gregory J.McCarthy
Deputy Sheriff Patricia M. Mohn
Deputy Sheriff Matthew M. Noecker
Deputy Sheriff Timothy L. Taylor
Deputy Sheriff Jason M. Weiss
Franklinville Village Police Department
Police Officer Jason D.Miller
New York State Police
Trooper Mark Ennis
Trooper Peter G. Verdesi
Oswego County Sheriff's Office
Deputy Sheriff Jeremy L.Plyler
Rochester City Police Department
Police Officer Nicole L. Tamburello
Troy City Police Department
Police Officer Ryan F. Holohan
