Three honored during 'Officers of the Year' ceremony in McHenry County

The McHenry County Chiefs of Police Association honored three police officers during the annual "Officer of the Year" banquet Saturday, Jan. 16.

There were three area officers being considered for this year's award. The nominees were: Officer Krzysztof Krol of the Crystal Lake Police Department, Detective Verle Leard of Harvard Police Department and Officer Jeremy Mortimer of Woodstock Police Department.

Officer Krzysztof Krol was named as this year's "Officer of the Year." The nomination stems from his courageous actions during a police response to a domestic incident in June 2015. Officer Krol was recognized for taking immediate and decisive action in an encounter with a subject armed with a knife who posed a threat to the safety and well-being of those in the immediate area. Officer Krol's ability to stop the threat and then render first-aid to the suspect was a testament to his abilities and professionalism.

The three officers who were nominated for this year's award are law enforcement officers who are dedicated to their profession and to the communities they serve. Their actions in 2015 that led to their nominations were only a few of the highlighted acts that most first responders are willing and able to do on a daily basis for the great citizens of this county.