Press Release: 5/15/2025

Healey-Driscoll Administration Honors Correctional Professionals at 28th Annual Excellence in Corrections Awards

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

5/14/2025

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Brenna Galvin, Deputy Director of Communications

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Call Brenna Galvin, Deputy Director of Communications at 857-262-6581

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WORCESTER — Yesterday, in a ceremony at Mechanics Hall, the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS), the Massachusetts Department of Correction (DOC), and Massachusetts Sheriffs’ Association convened to honor the exceptional service, bravery, and commitment of individuals working within state and county correction agencies across Massachusetts. The 28th Annual Excellence in Corrections Awards recognized 27 correctional professionals for their outstanding contributions to public safety and rehabilitation efforts. These honorees exemplify the highest standards of professionalism and dedication in the field of corrections. 

“Today, we honor correctional professionals whose dedication and service support rehabilitation, uphold justice and promote safer communities statewide,” said Governor Maura Healey. “This year’s recipients exemplify the integrity and commitment that correction officers bring every day to every shift and whether they are on duty or off. We thank them for their exemplary service and unwavering commitment to the people of Massachusetts.

“Each of this year’s recipients embodies the dedication, professionalism and impact of correction officers within correctional facilities and throughout our communities,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “Their stories reflect how their training and commitment can truly make a difference. Thank you to the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security, the Department of Correction, and the Sheriffs’ Association for convening this important event to honor these individuals and to underscore their vital role in building safer communities across Massachusetts.”

“The Excellence in Corrections Awards offer an important opportunity to recognize the courage, skill and compassion of correction professionals,” said Public Safety and Security Secretary Terrence Reidy. “Their extraordinary acts, often performed behind the wall and out of public view, too often do not receive the public accolades they deserve. Today, we celebrate their bravery, life-saving actions, and exceptional care. We are grateful for all they do.”

The ceremony conferred three distinct awards: Meritorious Recognition, Medal of Valor, and Medal of Honor. Meritorious Recognition recognizes an employee who acted beyond the requirements of their position. The second highest honor, Medal of Valor, honors an employee who put themselves at risk of retaining injury to protect others. Last, individuals receiving the Medal of Honor, the highest award, knowingly risked their lives to save another.

“The heroic actions of our Correctional professionals may not be seen every day by the public, but the impact of their work can be felt in all our communities,” said Massachusetts DOC Commissioner Shawn Jenkins. “The excellence and dedicated service displayed by everyone being celebrated today epitomizes the unwavering commitment of our officers. It is with honor we recognize these staff for their bravery, professionalism, and devotion to excellence.”

“The courage celebrated today exemplifies the incredible dedication to valor and public safety shown daily by the men and women who work in all of our correctional facilities,” said Massachusetts Sheriffs’ Association President and Norfolk County Sheriff Patrick McDermott. “On duty, or off, they are always ready to respond swiftly, no matter the danger. We are forever grateful for their remarkable professionalism. Congratulations to all of the award recipients.”

The awards are as follows:

Meritorious Recognition

Berkshire County Sheriff’s Office 

Sergeant Bradley Montgomery

Officer Anthony Albano 

On November 19, 2024, Sergeant Bradley Montgomery and Corrections Officer Anthony Albano were returning from an event when they encountered a vehicular accident on the Massachusetts Turnpike in Chicopee. Coming upon the scene, the Officers learned that a 5-year-old boy had been ejected from the vehicle, suffering significant head trauma.  Officer Albano provided comfort to the distressed boy by cradling him, while Sergeant Montgomery administered pressure to the boy's wound and ensured the safety of the scene, simultaneously reassuring the parents of the injured child. Their composed and professional demeanor was apparent when the responding officers and EMTs arrived. Even after assistance arrived, they continued to aid the boy and his family. Undoubtedly, the actions of these officers were pivotal in maintaining order during this chaotic situation and exemplified empathy as they assisted a family in navigating a traumatic experience. 

Consequently, the Meritorious Recognition award is bestowed upon Sergeant Bradley Montgomery and Officer Anthony Albano. 

Bristol County Sheriff’s Office 

Lieutenant Jared Neville

Correction Officer Matthew Boyer

Officer Damien Maldonado

Officer Trevor Tavares

Officer Tyler Estrella

Officer Andrew Carrelas

On the morning of August 2, 2024, an incarcerated individual chose to defy the instructions of Corrections Officer Matthew Boyer and Lieutenant Jared Neville by refusing to leave his cell and making threats towards others in the unit. In light of this situation, it was decided that this incarcerated individual and his cellmate would need to be safely extracted from their cell. When officers attempted to open the cell door, they found that it had been barricaded by the occupant, rendering it jammed. 

Demonstrating incredible teamwork, Correction Officers Boyer, Damien Maldonado, Trevor Tavares, Tyler Estrella, and Andrew Carrelas worked together to pry the door open just enough to see smoke pouring out from inside the cell, which indicated a fire was present. Acting swiftly, Officer Tavares grabbed a fire extinguisher to put out the flames and prevent further damage while the other officers worked to open the door and escort the two inmates to safety. Thankfully, none of the responding officers faced injury in this situation. Due to the steadfast commitment of the officer team, the incarcerated individuals residing within the housing unit were maintained in a state of safety.  

In acknowledgment of their remarkable acts of kindness, bravery, and humanity, Lt. Jared Neville of the Bristol County Sheriff’s Office, along with Corrections Officers Matthew Boyer, Damien Maldonado, Trevor Tavares, Tyler Estrella, and Andrew Carrelas, are being awarded the Meritorious Recognition.

Essex County Sheriff’s Department 

Correction Officer Luiz Da Silveira Goncalves

Officer Luiz Da Silveira Goncalves is being honored with the Meritorious Recognition award for his crucial role in apprehending and taking a suspect into custody for assault, battery, and carjacking on August 12, 2024. 

On his way to pick up his daughter from daycare, Officer Da Silveira Goncalves noticed a Revere Police Officer struggling to extract the suspect from a vehicle. Wanting to assist a fellow officer, he stepped in to help the officer remove the suspect, all while evading an aggressive attempt to bite and injure him. 

Together, Officer Da Silveira Goncalves and the officer successfully immobilized and handcuffed the suspect, who was then transported to the back of the Revere police cruiser for processing with the assistance of other responding officers. His actions minimized injuries and further harm, earning Officer 

Da Silveira Goncalves the gratitude of the Revere Police Department and the citizens of Revere. 

Officer Da Silveira Goncalves' training from the United States Army and the Essex County Sheriff’s Office equipped him for this courageous and professional peacekeeping act.  

Officer Da Silveira Goncalves is away on military leave.  Sherif Kevin Coppinger is accepting the award on his behalf.  

Essex County Sheriff’s Department   

Sergeant Eric Hefner 

On Saturday, August 3, 2024, while spending the day at Jericho Mountain State Park operating an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) with his son, off-duty Sergeant Eric Hefner encountered another all-terrain vehicle that had overturned onto its side. As bystanders signaled for assistance, Sergeant Hefner approached to evaluate the situation. Smoke was emanating from the overturned ATV, and the driver was attempting to exit through the window when Sergeant Hefner observed that the driver was profusely bleeding from his hand.   

Sergeant Hefner swiftly intervened, assisting the driver out of the vehicle and positioning him away from the accident site. Upon inspection, Sergeant Hefner noted that the driver’s hand was partially severed and two fingers were missing. Taking command of the situation, he requested an onlooker to remove the driver’s t-shirt and directed another bystander to procure a stick from the surrounding woods. Utilizing the stick, t-shirt, and his first aid training, Sergeant Hefner fashioned a tourniquet which he applied to the driver's arm to manage the bleeding and mitigate further blood loss. Once the driver was stabilized, Sergeant Hefner and the bystanders righted the ATV and located the severed fingers and hand, which were subsequently placed in a bag of ice.   

Sergeant Hefner remained on-site for approximately one hour until medical services arrived to transport the injured driver. Following this, the driver was taken to the nearest airport and airlifted by helicopter to Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire, which is situated over two hours away from the incident site.    

Sergeant Hefner's training and prompt actions in administering first aid to a man with significant blood loss from a partially severed hand were pivotal in this life-threatening circumstance. He expressed gratitude for the training he received through the Essex County Sheriff's Department, which proved instrumental in managing this incident. Additionally, Sergeant Hefner appreciated having his son present, as he observed him assisting another individual during a critical juncture.    

The Meritorious Recognition award is hereby presented to Sergeant Eric Hefner of the Essex County Sheriff’s Department for his extraordinary efforts during a life-saving event that contributed to the preservation of the life of a victim involved in an ATV accident.

Hampden County Sheriff’s Office 

Correction Officer Jennifer Goncalves 

On Saturday, November 16, 2024, while off duty and driving down Main Street in Indian Orchard, Corrections Officer Jennifer Goncalves observed a man lying in the middle of the street with a shattered front window. Recognizing the severity of the situation, she immediately stopped her vehicle, ensured the scene was safe, and approached the injured man. She identified herself as a first responder from the Hampden County Sheriff’s Office and began a thorough assessment.   

The man, whose face was covered in blood, had a significant laceration on the back of his head, a contusion on his forehead, and an unstable jaw. Officer Goncalves used a t-shirt to apply pressure to the head wound to control bleeding while maintaining clear communication with the injured man and providing reassurance. She instructed a bystander to call 911 and relay critical information to the dispatcher while she monitored the man’s airway, breathing, and circulation.  

When the man began choking on blood, Officer Goncalves directed the bystander to assist her in carefully rolling him onto his side, maintaining C-side control to protect his neck and spine. Shortly thereafter, Springfield Police and EMS arrived on the scene. Officer Goncalves continued to assist, applying pressure to the man’s head wound until paramedics secured it with gauze. Officer Goncalves worked alongside EMS personnel to safely transfer the injured man onto a stretcher for transport to the Hospital.  

Officer Jennifer Goncalves’ exemplary acts of bravery unequivocally spared the victim from potentially more severe harm and effectively facilitated their path to recovery.  

In recognition of her rapid and proficient response, steadfast composure, and commitment to active involvement in a high-stress scenario, the Meritorious Recognition Award is hereby presented to Corrections Officer Jennifer Goncalves for her significant contributions that ensured the victim’s urgent care and safety. 

Middlesex County Sheriff’s Office 

Officer Christopher Vogan 

Officer Andres Nova-Castro  

On January 23, 2024, Officer Christopher Vogan and Officer Andres Nova-Castro were returning to the Middlesex Jail and House of Correction following an external hospital assignment when they were signaled by a civilian who brought to their attention a multi-vehicle accident involving an eighteen-wheel tractor-trailer on Route 3 in Billerica.  Without delay, both officers promptly responded to the incident and were the first law enforcement personnel to arrive at the scene. They rapidly ascertained that an individual was critically injured, trapped within one of the vehicles, devoid of a pulse and exhibiting extremely shallow breathing. As they commenced administering lifesaving assistance to the victim, they further recognized a potential cervical spine injury along with a head injury. Upon the arrival of Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs), Officers Vogan and Nova-Castro relayed this vital information to the EMTs and provided further assistance in extricating the trapped victim by forcefully opening a jammed door.  Following the successful retrieval of the victim from the vehicle, they aided the EMTs in positioning the victim onto a backboard and stretcher. They implemented additional lifesaving interventions, which included the administration of Narcan. 

The Meritorious Recognition Group Award is hereby presented to Corrections Officers Christopher Vogan and Andres Nova-Castro for their proficient application of training, which restored order to a chaotic situation, and for providing critical assistance to an injured individual. 

Currently, Andres Nova-Castro is a police officer with the Haverhill Police Department.   

Norfolk County Sheriff's Office  

Licensed Practical Nurse Edward L. Reardon 

At approximately 3:30 am on December 23, the Corrections Officer assigned to the medical unit at the Norfolk County Correctional Center attended to an incarcerated individual’s request for water and toilet paper. Upon opening the cell door to provide the requested items, the inmate lunged at her, causing her to be knocked to the floor.   

Nurse Edward Reardon, who was in proximity, heard the Officer call his name and promptly proceeded in the Officer's direction. Upon arrival, Nurse Reardon observed the subject positioned over the Corrections Officer and immediately positioned himself between the assailant and the Corrections Officer — who had been knocked to the floor and sustained injuries — thereby restraining the subject.   

In addition to the assault on the Corrections Officer, the situation remained volatile when the subject broke through the restraint and rushed towards a fire exit door within the facility. Due to Nurse Reardon's actions, the subject was kept at bay until additional security personnel arrived moments later.   

Without Nurse Reardon's intervention, it is plausible that the injured Corrections Officer would have faced further danger, and the situation could have continued in a state of unrest. Nurse Reardon demonstrated commendable selflessness by prioritizing the safety of a colleague over his own personal safety, opting to expose himself to risk for the protection of another individual. 

In recognition of his exceptional actions, the Meritorious Recognition award is hereby conferred upon Nurse Edward Reardon for demonstrating considerable courage and bravery, as well as exceeding expectations to safeguard a fellow corrections colleague.

MASAC Plymouth

Sergeant Nicholas Harght

Correction Officer Luis DeJesus 

On March 20, 2024, at approximately 6:20 p.m., a disruptive patient at the Massachusetts Alcohol and Substance Abuse Center (MASAC) in Plymouth barricaded himself within a room. The individual, reportedly distressed following a phone call, damaged the wire security mesh and the security glass of the door. Equipped with glass shards and a metal implement, the patient rearranged furniture to obstruct access to the door.  

Superintendent Jeffrey Gonsalves and Acting Assistant Deputy Commissioner Steven Kennedy promptly initiated notifications for the deployment of Department of Correction (DOC) resources to the facility. A member of the Crisis Negotiation Team (CNT) from Old Colony Correctional Center, accompanied by personnel from the Crisis Intervention Team (CIT), swiftly arrived at the location. Sergeant Nicholas Harght (CNT) and Correction Officer Luis DeJesus (CIT) commenced dialogue with the individual involved. 

The patient broke the exterior windows, resulting in an increased amount of glass scattered across the vicinity. He seized a shard of glass, positioned it against his throat, and threatened to inflict self-harm if anyone attempted to enter. Utilizing their training and expertise, Sergeant Harght and Officer DeJesus endeavored to deescalate the situation and successfully persuaded the individual to exit the room.  

By engaging in active listening, building rapport with the patient, and adeptly assessing the situation, these officers successfully handled the incident.  

The Selection Committee has conferred the Meritorious Recognition Group Award upon Sergeant Nicholas Harght and Correction Officer Luis DeJesus for their exemplary service efforts. 

MCI Shirley 

Officer Ethan Deschamps

On Friday, December 27, 2024, Correction Officer Ethan Deschamps was off duty and dining with family at the Longhorn Steakhouse in Millbury, Massachusetts.  During the meal, Officer Deschamps astutely noticed that an elderly gentleman appeared to be choking at a nearby table. 

The officer promptly rushed to the gentleman’s assistance and commenced administering the Heimlich maneuver. At this juncture, the elderly individual became limp and began to exhibit a loss of color. Officer Deschamps proceeded to assist the gentleman to the floor, at which point he discerned that the man was not breathing. Officer Deschamps successfully removed the obstruction; however, the individual remained unresponsive. He continued to perform chest compressions for an extended duration until the arrival of emergency medical personnel. 

After a brief interval, the man was able to sit upright and resume breathing. Officer Deschamps' swift and decisive actions were instrumental in saving the individual’s life.  

In acknowledgement of his prompt critical thinking, the Selection Committee bestows upon Correction Officer Ethan Deschamps the Meritorious Recognition Award.  

Medal of Valor

Hampden County Sheriff’s Office 

Chief Financial Officer Christopher Gelonese 

On the morning of October 3, 2024, while traversing Monastery Avenue in West Springfield, Chief Financial Officer Gelonese witnessed a woman being assaulted by two large, aggressive mixed breed dogs while she attempted to walk her two small dogs. The woman was pinned to the ground, screaming for assistance, with no other individuals present to offer help. Acknowledging the urgency of the circumstance, Chief Financial Officer Gelonese promptly halted his vehicle, activated his emergency lights, and hurried to the victim’s aid. 

Armed with his baton, Chief Financial Officer Gelonese positioned himself between the woman and the attacking dogs, utilizing the baton to fend them off and prevent any further harm. His swift and resolute actions provided a crucial barrier of protection until the dogs’ owner arrived to secure the animals. 

Throughout the entire ordeal, Chief Financial Officer Gelonese exhibited a focused and composed demeanor, ensuring the safety of the woman involved, despite the evident and immediate danger posed to his own well-being. Once the immediate threat had been mitigated, Chief Financial Officer Gelonese utilized his radio to contact the West Springfield Police and Emergency Medical Services to respond to the scene. He remained with the injured woman, providing reassurance and comfort until the arrival of emergency personnel. As a result of his prompt intervention, the woman was subsequently transported to the hospital to receive necessary medical care. 

CFO Gelonese's actions exemplify the highest standards of courage, selflessness, and dedication to public safety. His willingness to place himself in harm's way to save another individual's life is a testament to his character and unwavering commitment to service. 

Chief Financial Officer Christopher Gelonese demonstrated remarkable courage and performed a lifesaving effort when confronted with imminent peril. Consequently, the selection committee conferred upon him the Medal of Valor.

Middlesex County Sheriff’s Office  

Officer Sean J. Mullin

On September 16, 2024, Corrections Officer Sean Mullin was proceeding towards the Middlesex Jail and House of Correction when he observed substantial black smoke arising from a nearby residence. Upon approaching the house, Officer Mullin noted that the heavy smoke was accompanied by flames emanating from the garage. Exiting his vehicle, Officer Mullin approached an individual in the driveway and inquired whether he was the homeowner. The individual confirmed his identity and indicated that his wife remained inside the residence. In a remarkable display of courage, Officer Mullin entered the engulfed home and located the woman, who was in a state of distress and confusion.   

Immediately after successfully escorting the woman outside, he was alerted by an onlooker that the husband had re-entered the home. Without a moment's hesitation, Officer Mullin once again entered the dwelling in an effort to locate the homeowner. By this point, the interior of the house was filled with thick black smoke, rendering visual search efforts futile. Calling out to the man, Officer Mullin utilized his voice to ascertain his location and subsequently guided him out of the burning structure and across the street to safety.   

As the first responders arrived, Officer Mullin communicated with personnel from the Billerica Fire Department and confirmed that no additional individuals were present within the home. He then reported to his supervisor at the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office and continued to the Middlesex Jail and House of Correction to fulfill his regular shift.   

The selection committee hereby commends Corrections Officer Sean Mullin for his heroic actions, wherein he selflessly disregarded his safety and saved the lives of two individuals from a house fire.  

MCI Norfolk 

Lieutenant John Denehy

Sergeant Zachary Gustafson

Correction Officer David Olson

Correction Officer Richard Boynton

Correction Officer Joshua Lavan

Correction Officer Jason Procter

Correction Officer Ryan Davidson

Correction Officer Daniel McGuire

On December 1, 2024, approximately at 2:20 pm, Lieutenant John Denehy, Sergeant Zachary Gustafson, Correction Officers Daniel McGuire, David Olson, Richard Boynton, Joshua Lavan, Jason Procter, and Ryan Davidson were finishing their shift when smoke, which quickly turned into roaring flames, was called over the radio transmission.   

All these officers rushed to the fire without hesitation. Soon, personnel from seven area fire departments arrived on the scene to extinguish the blaze.   

The entire staff team risked harm and injury to ensure those individuals under our care were not harmed.  

Staff at the DOC train regularly to respond to these types of emergencies, and on that day, the officers instinctively reacted quickly and professionally.   

Three staff members suffered smoke inhalation, two requiring hospital evaluations, only to return to the facility and request to remain on duty for the following shift to assist with the residual effects of this monumental event.   

The Selection Committee conferred the Meritorious Group Award upon Lieutenant Denehy. Sergeant Gustafson and Officers McGuire, Olson, Boynton, Lavan, Procter, and Davidson were awarded the Medal of Valor Group Award in recognition of their extraordinary heroism and commendable actions. Correction Officer Daniel McGuire received the Medal of Honor Group Award for his exemplary dedication and for exceeding the call of duty. All recipients are deserving of this distinguished award.