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Police Association of Ontario honours extraordinary acts of heroism

June 6, 2025, Ottawa, Ont. – The Police Association of Ontario (PAO) has announced the winners of the tenth annual Police Services Hero of the Year Awards. Hundreds of Ontarians submitted nominations to celebrate the outstanding police personnel who have gone above and beyond in their local communities.

The winners were honoured during the Police Association of Ontario’s 93^rd Annual Meeting and Convention, where representatives from 37 local police associations across the province gathered to recognize the exceptional individuals and teams dedicated to protecting and serving their communities.

Congratulations to the 2025 award winners:

On-Duty Difference Maker – Uniform Officer – A police officer who has exceeded job expectations while on duty

Winner: Jayden Drage, Hamilton Police Service

During a severe snowstorm, Constable Jayden Drage of the Hamilton Police Service displayed heroism by rescuing a father trapped under a collapsed snow fort. With selfless determination, he dug through the snow with his bare hands to save the father, ultimately requiring hospitalization due to exhaustion. His brave actions demonstrate the profound impact individuals can have on their community during times of crisis.

On-Duty Difference Maker – Civilian – A civilian police service employee who has exceeded job expectations while on duty

Winner: Sandra Guiliani, Hamilton Police Service

Special Constable Sandra Guiliani was awarded the On-Duty Difference Maker Award for her exceptional leadership and dedication to mentoring colleagues while fostering a collaborative environment. She played a vital role in revamping the training program for Special Constables and became one of the first instructors in her position for Use of Force. Additionally, Sandra’s compassion was evident when she transformed the Court Security Hobble Golf Tournament into a memorial event for her late colleague, Hannah Demik, honouring her legacy and strengthening team bonds during a difficult time.

The Extra Mile Award – A police officer or civilian police service employee who has performed a onetime, extraordinary act of kindness or bravery while off duty

Winner: Andrew Poustie, Hamilton Police Service

Sergeant Andrew Poustie demonstrated heroism when, off duty, he rescued a man struggling in icy waters after the man fell from his kayak. Despite the frigid conditions and the lack of immediate assistance, Sgt. Poustie quickly sprang into action, using a nearby boat to reach the distressed kayaker and bringing him back to safety just in time for emergency services to arrive. His courageous actions highlight not only his dedication as a police officer but also his strong sense of community spirit during times of crisis.

Police Hero Honour Roll Award – Recognizes a police officer or civilian police service employee who has made a significant impact over the past decade.

Winner: Marc Lauzon, OPP – Russell County Detachment

Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Constable Marc Lauzon demonstrated extraordinary courage on May 11, 2023. During a tragic incident in Bourget, Ontario, he faced gunfire while responding to a call, resulting in the heartbreaking loss of his partner, Sergeant Eric Mueller. Despite suffering life-altering injuries, Marc’s selflessness and commitment to protect others remain an inspiring testament to his character. As he is honoured with the Police Hero Honour Roll Award, we also extend our deepest sympathies to the Mueller family.

Community Role Model – A police officer or civilian police service employee who has made a significant contribution to their community over an extended period

Winner: Gary Bezaire, London Police Service

Detective Gary Bezaire is being honoured with the Community Role Model Award for his outstanding dedication to serving others and his exemplary leadership within the London community. His extensive volunteer work, particularly with the Dad Club of London and the London and Middlesex Community Housing Corporation, has significantly benefited families in need, including raising over $200,000 for various initiatives. Additionally, his professional contributions to the London Police Service, particularly in homicide investigations and human trafficking, underscore his commitment to community safety and justice.

“We are proud to recognize the incredible dedication and heroism of our police service personnel through the Police Services Hero of the Year Awards. Each winner exemplifies the spirit of service and commitment to community safety that defines the men and women in uniform. Their selfless acts of bravery and compassion inspire us all to strive for a better, safer Ontario. These awards are not just a celebration of individual achievements but a testament to the strength of teamwork and community that we uphold every day,” said Mark Baxter, President of the Police Association of Ontario.

The Police Association of Ontario’s Awards Committee, comprising members-at-large, the President, the Board Chair and civilian association staff, faced the challenging task of selecting winners from hundreds of heartfelt nominations. Members of the public are encouraged to view the stories of the 2025 Police Services Hero of the Year Award winners at www.policehero.ca.