Press Release: 10/15/2025
Healey-Driscoll Administration Presents 42nd Annual Trooper George L. Hanna Memorial Awards for Bravery to Members of Law Enforcement
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
10/15/2025
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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 — Today, the Healey-Driscoll Administration presented the 42nd Annual Trooper George L. Hanna Memorial Awards for Bravery, honoring 19 officers from nine departments at Mechanics Hall in Worcester. The ceremony recognizes exceptional acts of courage by law enforcement and commemorates the legacy of Trooper George Hanna, who was killed in the line of duty in 1983.
This year’s incidents ranging from an ambush through a closed door, an armed confrontation across live highway lanes, and a prolonged standoff with dozens of rounds fired, underscore the daily, life-threatening risks officers face and the courage required to protect the public.
Since its inception in 1983, 181 individuals have received the Hanna Award Medal of Honor, the Commonwealth’s highest commendation for law enforcement. This year’s honorees represent nine agencies, including Boston, Lawrence, Lexington, Lynnfield, Malden, North Andover, Wilbraham, Worcester Police Departments, and the Massachusetts State Police.
“Massachusetts’ highest law enforcement award is bestowed on those who meet extreme danger head-on to protect others,” said Governor Maura Healey. “Today’s recipients and their harrowing stories of closed-door ambushes and rescues under a barrage of fire remind us of the bravery this noble profession demands and reflects the enduring legacy of Trooper George Hanna, whose life and service continues to inspire.”
“Hanna Award recipients exemplify the exceptional dedication, training, and bravery that define the very best of law enforcement,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “Today’s heroes embody Trooper George Hanna’s legacy and underscore the profound sacrifice made by officers and their families.”
“The Hanna Awards offer us a meaningful moment to unequivocally say: thank you. To the officers who met chaos with discipline and fear with service, and to the families we support as you support your loved ones who serve, we honor you,” said Interim Public Safety and Security Secretary Susan W. Terrey. “The incidents we hear about today make clear what policing demands, and the investments needed to save lives, including training, wellness and equipment. By carrying every lesson forward and standing with those who stand between danger and the community, we will never forget.”
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| Governor Healey shakes hands with Medal of Valor recipients, (L-R) Lynnfield Officer Gianfranco Pisano and Malden Officer Amanda Grenier at the 42nd annual Trooper George L. Hanna Memorial Awards for Bravery ceremony. (Photo courtesy of the Governor’s Office) | |
The ceremony also featured members of the Hanna Award Selection Committee and the family of Trooper George Hanna. Trooper Hanna’s daughters, Deborah and Kimberly, participated in the program by presenting awards alongside Governor Healey, ensuring their father’s legacy continues to inspire future generations of law enforcement.
Each year, state and local agencies submit nominations for the Hanna Awards, which are reviewed by a selection committee of public safety and law enforcement leaders. Upon selecting individuals or teams as recipients, the committee considers the facts of each nomination to classify the award as either a medal of honor or valor. The Medal of Honor is the highest award for those who demonstrate extraordinary bravery and courage in the face of extreme risk and certain and imminent danger to life or limb. Valor is awarded to those whose valor in a single incident goes above and beyond the call of duty, and who demonstrate selfless bravery despite the potential for danger to themselves.
The awards are named in memory of Trooper George L. Hanna, who tragically lost his life in the line of duty on February 26, 1983. While conducting a routine motor vehicle stop in Auburn, Trooper Hanna was fatally shot by a suspect. He left behind his wife, Marilyn, and three children, Deborah, Kimberly, and Michael.
The 2025 Hanna Award recipients and incident summaries are as follows:
Officer Joseph C. Carruthers, Medal of Valor
Lexington Police Department (Now with the Massachusetts Parole Board)
On February 12, 2022, the Lexington Police Department received a 911 call from a man shouting from his window, “Please call the police—someone is trying to kill me!” The victim had barricaded himself inside his room to protect himself from an armed roommate.
All available patrol units responded and quickly established a perimeter around the residence. As officers approached, they were confronted by a man armed with a knife who began making threats. The officers immediately employed de-escalation tactics—creating distance, issuing calm commands to drop the knife, and urging the man to get on the ground so everyone could go home safely.
Despite their efforts, the suspect became increasingly agitated and advanced toward the officers. They deployed less-lethal options, striking him with multiple super sock rounds, but he continued to move forward. As officers worked to reload the less-lethal shotgun, one officer slipped on ice and fell.
In that moment, the suspect flipped the knife into a downward “ice pick” grip and charged toward the fallen officer. Recognizing the imminent threat to his colleague’s life, Officer Joseph Carruthers fired his service weapon, stopping the attack. He then directed another officer to retrieve the medical bag and immediately began rendering aid until rescue personnel arrived to take over care.
Throughout the confrontation, Officer Carruthers demonstrated exceptional composure, courage, and leadership—coordinating his fellow officers, directing their positions, and managing the escalating danger with clarity and control. His decisive actions saved the life of a fellow Lexington officer and potentially others nearby.
Officer Carruthers’ bravery and quick thinking reflect the highest traditions of law enforcement and the true spirit of valor.
Officer Gianfranco M. Pisano, Medal of Valor
Lynnfield Police Department
On December 29, 2024, at approximately 10:07 p.m., the Lynnfield Police Department received a 911 call reporting a violent home invasion in progress. Three masked men dressed in black forced their way into a residence, holding a man and woman hostage. The victims were bound with zip ties, and the male occupant was pistol-whipped and beaten.
Responding officers arrived within moments of one another. Upon exiting his cruiser, Officer Gianfranco Pisano spotted the suspects fleeing into a dark, wooded area behind the home. Without hesitation, he issued commands for them to stop and sprinted toward the wood line in pursuit. Acting instinctively and without regard for his own safety, Officer Pisano closed the distance—leaping fences and crossing backyards—until he caught one suspect, tackled him to the ground, and took him into custody.
The suspect, dressed entirely in black and wearing a ski mask, was secured in a police vehicle. Minutes later, officers searching the area located a loaded Glock 22 handgun lying beside the suspect’s shoe—confirming that he had been armed during his flight.
Video surveillance from the home captured the assault and showed the suspect exiting the house holding the firearm. Inside, officers found the victims still restrained and injured, but alive—thanks to the officers’ rapid response.
Officer Pisano’s decisive action and fearless pursuit of armed, violent offenders through darkness and difficult terrain exemplify extraordinary courage and dedication to duty. His swift response helped end a brutal home invasion and prevented further harm to the victims.
Officer Amanda M. Grenier, Medal of Valor
Malden Police Department
On the morning of May 22, 2024, at approximately 9:15 a.m., the Malden Police were dispatched to a reported disturbance between a man and a woman along the city’s bike path. It was soon determined that the suspect had violently assaulted a woman—punching her in the head, knocking her to the ground, and robbing her of her cell phone and laptop at knifepoint.
Upon arrival, Officer Amanda Grenier was approached by a panicked woman who identified the assailant nearby. Knowing the suspect was armed, Officer Grenier maintained her service weapon at a low-ready position as she and her fellow officer attempted to de-escalate the situation. The suspect, however, was agitated and confrontational, shouting, “You’re not going to arrest me. Let’s go!” and at times advancing toward the officers.
Recognizing the escalating danger, Officer Grenier directed fellow officers to prepare their Tasers as less-lethal options while she maintained lethal coverage. Despite repeated commands, the suspect reached into his pocket, produced a kitchen knife, and charged directly at another officer.
That officer deployed his Taser, but it was ineffective. A second deployment by officers also failed to stop the attack. Trapped against a cruiser with no room to retreat, an officer was facing an imminent threat to his life. Perceiving the lethal danger, Officer Grenier fired two rounds from her service weapon, striking the suspect in the upper shoulder.
Even after being struck, the suspect refused to drop the knife until a final Taser deployment subdued him. Officers on the scene immediately began lifesaving measures—applying combat gauze and pressure bandages to control the bleeding—until medical personnel arrived. The suspect was transported to a local hospital, treated, and survived.
This incident stands as a powerful example of professionalism, restraint, teamwork, and courage under pressure. The swift, coordinated response led by Officer Grenier prevented a tragedy and exemplifies the valor and dedication honored by this prestigious award.
Trooper Colton T. Leary and Officer Daniel S. Dyson, Medals of Valor
Massachusetts State Police and Worcester Police Department
On October 2, 2024, law enforcement in Worcester faced a series of rapidly unfolding, life-threatening events that began with homicide and ended in an armed confrontation on Interstate 190.
At 2:14 p.m., Worcester Police responded to reports of a man suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. The victim later succumbed to his injuries. Detectives quickly developed a suspect description—an armed man dressed in black—which matched several subsequent 911 calls reporting the same individual near the I-190 on-ramp.
At 3:26 p.m., multiple callers reported that the suspect was armed, agitated, and attempting to stop vehicles on the highway. One caller stated that the man pointed a gun directly at her as she drove past.
A Massachusetts State Police sergeant was the first to encounter the suspect on the I-190 northbound on-ramp. Despite repeated commands to drop his weapon, the suspect fired his gun, prompting the sergeant to broadcast “shots fired.” The armed man then advanced onto the interstate, weaving through live traffic, brandishing his firearm, and trying to open car doors in an attempt to hijack vehicles—placing countless motorists in immediate danger.
As additional units arrived, including Massachusetts State Police Trooper Colton Leary and Worcester Police Officer Daniel Dyson, the suspect continued to fire and threaten both officers and civilians.
Recognizing the imminent danger, Trooper Colton Leary took a precise and measured shot, striking the suspect and causing him to fall. Moments later, the suspect turned the gun on himself, sustaining a fatal injury. Trooper Leary immediately requested a medical kit and rendered aid until EMS arrived. Despite these efforts, the suspect did not survive.
During the same encounter, Officer Daniel Dyson played a crucial role in containing the threat. As the suspect ran between lanes of stopped traffic, Officer Dyson repeatedly maneuvered his cruiser alongside him, issuing loud, clear commands to drop the weapon. The suspect ignored these orders and at one point squared off against Dyson, raising his gun and charging directly toward him.
The coordinated and courageous actions of Trooper Leary and Officer Dyson brought an extremely volatile and dangerous situation to a close, preventing further violence and protecting the lives of innocent motorists and fellow officers. Their composure, discipline, and bravery exemplify the highest standards of law enforcement and the spirit of valor honored by the Hanna Award.
Officer Duy Chau, Officer Jose Lugo-Gardner, and Officer Michael Spalatro (currently promoted to Sergeant), Medals of Valor
Worcester Police Department
On July 7, 2023, the Worcester Police Department received multiple 911 calls reporting that several people had been shot. Responding officers quickly learned that a man had shot both his mother and brother inside their home. The father confirmed the suspect—his other son—was still armed and possibly barricaded inside the residence.
Arriving at the scene, officers observed the suspect outside in the front yard. Believing he was still armed, Officer Duy Chau took position and ordered the suspect to raise his hands and walk toward the street. The suspect initially complied, dropping a duffel bag and another object before lying face down on the ground as officers formed an apprehension team.
As officers moved forward to take him into custody, the suspect suddenly stood, pulled a firearm, and fired directly at them. The officers immediately took cover as the suspect retreated behind a fence and ran back into the house. Recognizing the extreme danger, Officer Chau ordered his team to seek cover, and the Worcester Police SWAT team was activated.
For nearly six hours, officers worked to contain the standoff. When the SWAT team deployed OC gas to force the suspect’s surrender, he responded by firing multiple rounds out the front door toward the entry team. Hours later, the suspect appeared again at a rear basement door, ignoring commands and opening fire on Officer Chau, Officer Michael Spalatro, and Officer Jose Lugo-Gardner. Fearing for their lives and those of nearby residents, the officers returned fire, each discharging approximately three rounds before the suspect retreated back inside.
The tense standoff continued as the suspect repeatedly reappeared, wounded, erratic, and taunting officers. Despite numerous commands urging him to surrender and receive medical help, he refused. When he again appeared at the rear basement door, a Worcester Police K9 was deployed, successfully engaging the suspect. As the K9 worked to subdue him, the suspect struck the dog repeatedly before being tased by a SWAT officer and taken into custody. Officers immediately rendered medical aid, including applying a tourniquet to control his bleeding.
Both shooting victims—his mother and brother—survived their injuries, as did the suspect.
The courage, discipline, and teamwork demonstrated by Officers Chau, Spalatro, and Lugo-Gardner throughout the prolonged and volatile encounter exemplify the very essence of valor. Their actions brought a dangerous situation to a safe resolution, protecting innocent lives and fellow officers from further harm.
Officer Jack P. Alberici, Medal of Valor
Officer Cameron W. Prosperi, Medal of Honor
Wilbraham Police Department
Ret. Major Michael S, Ofcarcik, Medal of Valor
Massachusetts State Police
On the evening of January 20, 2024, at approximately 8:30 p.m., the Wilbraham Police Department received a 911 call reporting that an armed man inside a residence was threatening to kill his wife and daughter.
Officers Jack Alberici and Cameron Prosperi responded immediately and positioned themselves at the rear of the home. As they watched the suspect approach an exterior door, they issued commands for him to show his hands. Without warning, the suspect opened fire through the closed door, discharging multiple rounds at the officers.
Officer Prosperi was struck twice—one round stopped by his ballistic vest, the other penetrating just below it and entering his chest cavity. Despite suffering life-threatening injuries, Officer Prosperi remained calm and returned fire as he fell to the ground. Beside him, Officer Alberici also engaged the suspect, striking him and forcing him deeper into the residence. Their decisive actions under direct fire stopped the assault and allowed fellow officers to move in and rescue the wounded Officer Prosperi from immediate danger.
Meanwhile, the suspect’s wife and daughter escaped through a second-story window onto the roof. Dressed only in pajamas and trapped in freezing temperatures, they remained exposed and in grave danger. Recognizing the urgency, Major Michael Ofcarcik of the Massachusetts State Police, who had arrived on scene with other Massachusetts State Police assets, coordinated a swift rescue operation. While a fellow State Police Sergeant and Trooper provided armed overwatch, Major Ofcarcik and another Trooper positioned a ladder against the garage roof. Acting with courage while under threat, Major Ofcarcik climbed the ladder and safely guided both women down to safety—all while the armed suspect remained inside the home.
Moments later, the Massachusetts State Police STOP Team entered the residence and located the suspect suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Officers immediately administered life-saving aid until paramedics arrived and transported him to the hospital.
Officer Prosperi was rushed to the hospital in extremely critical condition and underwent multiple emergency surgeries that saved his life. Though one bullet remains lodged in his chest, he continues his recovery—a powerful testament to his courage, strength, and will to survive.
The distinguished heroism of Officers Prosperi and Alberici, and the selfless bravery of Major Ofcarcik, reflect the very highest traditions of law enforcement service. Their actions on that January night brought honor to themselves, their departments, and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Officer Gerard Falco, Medal of Honor
Boston Police Department
On the evening of March 18, 2024, Boston Police Officer Gerard Falco and a fellow officer responded to a radio call for a person with a gun in Dorchester. The dispatcher could hear the suspect violently banging on a door, as the caller pleaded, “He may have a firearm—please hurry.”
While en route, the officers conducted a background check, which revealed the suspect had multiple prior convictions for firearm-related offenses, including unlawful possession of a gun and ammunition.
Upon arrival, the officers saw the suspect—wearing a blue hooded sweatshirt, black sweatpants, and a black balaclava—standing outside the residence. The moment he saw police, he became wide-eyed and sprinted away, clutching his waistband with both hands.
Recognizing this telltale movement, Officer Falco immediately gave chase, believing the man to be armed. As he caught up and brought the suspect to the ground, a gunshot rang out. Despite the close-range shot, the suspect continued to struggle violently as Officer Falco fought to subdue him until backup arrived. Together, the officers were able to place the suspect under arrest.
Moments later, another officer noticed damage to Officer Falco’s ballistic vest—the gunshot had struck him in the chest. As the adrenaline subsided, Officer Falco began experiencing intense pain and difficulty breathing. His fellow officers rushed him to the hospital for treatment.
Officer Falco’s courage and composure under fire reflect the very essence of heroism. His actions on that night not only protected his fellow officers and community but also exemplified the highest standards of valor and service in law enforcement.
Officers, Daniel D. Furman, Mathieu L. Messina, Timothy S. Houston, Eric J. Sewade and Sergeant Brandon W. James, Medals of Honor
North Andover Police Department
Officers Luis Santiago and Angelo Kocagoz, Medals of Honor
Lawrence Police Department
On the night of April 24, 2024, at approximately 9:50 p.m., the North Andover Police Department received a 911 call from a father reporting that his son had discharged a firearm inside their home and was threatening to take his own life.
Responding Officers Daniel Furman, Mathieu Messina, and Timothy Houston arrived within moments and were met almost immediately with gunfire from a long-arm rifle. The officers took cover behind their cruisers as the armed subject fired repeatedly from inside the residence. Over the course of the standoff, more than sixty rounds were discharged as the suspect alternated between a rifle and a shotgun.
Officer Houston had positioned his cruiser in the driveway to shield the caller—his disabled father, who was unable to move to safety. He then repositioned to gain a better vantage point to cover the house with his rifle. Sergeant Brandon James, joined by Lawrence Police Officers Luis Santiago and Angelo Kocagoz, who had responded to assist, quickly devised a plan to rescue the trapped father while the suspect continued firing. With Sergeant James providing cover, Officers Santiago and Kocagoz advanced through the line of fire and carried the man to safety.
Moments later, Officer Messina was struck in the face and eye by shotgun pellets. Officer Eric Sewade, positioned beside him, immediately radioed for help. Without hesitation, Officer Furman left cover under active gunfire to reach the wounded officer. Together, Officers Furman and Sewade dragged Officer Messina to safety behind a cruiser and provided emergency medical aid—bandaging his wounds and maintaining pressure while rounds continued to strike nearby.
Throughout the ordeal, the officers maintained extraordinary composure, communication, and restraint—working tirelessly to protect one another, the injured father, and surrounding neighbors. After a prolonged standoff, the NEMLEC SWAT Team entered the home and located the suspect deceased from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
The courage, discipline, and selfless teamwork displayed that night by Officers Messina, Houston, Furman, Sewade, Sergeant James, and Officers Santiago and Kocagoz exemplify the highest ideals of law enforcement. Their valor under relentless fire saved lives and upheld the very spirit of bravery recognized by the George L. Hanna Memorial Awards.