CLEARWATER – The Tampa Bay Area Chiefs of Police Foundation welcomed a sold-out crowd of more than 400 law enforcement officials, business leaders and supporters to its 10th Annual Gala Sept. 6 at the Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach.
The evening spotlighted heroes who have gone above and beyond in protecting and uplifting the Tampa Bay community, while also raising money to support the foundation’s mission. Since 2021, the Foundation has invested nearly $300,000 in training for officers and more than $400,000 in educational and police academy scholarships. Through these efforts, the foundation helps ensure Tampa Bay is protected by the best-trained, most committed professionals in law enforcement.
“Through the foundation, we give our law enforcement the tools, training and support they need,” said Greg Mertz, president of the Tampa Bay Area Chiefs of Police Foundation. “In turn, we help build trust, hope and safety for everyone who calls Tampa Bay home.”
Law enforcement winners were as follows:
- Deputy of the Year: Deputy John Howes, Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office
For risking his life to save a woman held hostage at knifepoint during a disturbance call, breaking through glass with his bare hands to stop the threat and rescue the victim.
- Officers of the Year: Officers Jeremiah Harvey, Landen Hopkins, Jason Sikoski, Benjamin Urdiales and Jeremy Wells, Tampa Police Department
For working together to lift a car off a man trapped underneath, then administering CPR and medical aid that ultimately saved his life.
- Agent of the Year: Deputy U.S. Marshal Mario Price
For leading Operation Dragon Eye, the largest missing child recovery operation in U.S. Marshals history, rescuing 60 critically missing children and arresting eight suspects on charges including human trafficking.
- Unsung Hero: Digital Forensic Consultant Jared Luce, Florida Department of Law Enforcement
A double amputee Marine veteran whose expertise has been instrumental in stopping a bomb threat, dismantling a global child exploitation ring and assisting with the arrest of an elementary school teacher charged with possession of child sexual abuse material.
- Community Policing Program of the Year: Sgt. Jason Deary and Officers Patrick McGovern, Richard Van, Samantha Reeder, Karrie Landes, Jonathan Schweiger, Christian Exantus, James Fuchs Jr., and Luis Martinez, St. Petersburg Police Department
For leading a coordinated effort across multiple city departments that dismantled a persistent criminal enterprise tied to 10 unsafe properties.
Community winners were as follows:
- Business Partner of the Year: Mike Harting, 3 Daughters Brewing, St. Petersburg City Council
For his generosity and support of law enforcement, first responders, and the community, including donating venues, raising critical funds, supporting mentorship programs, providing storm shelter and feeding SWAT teams during major events.
- Lifetime Achievement Award: Richard Gonzmart, Columbia Restaurant Group
For a lifetime of business leadership, philanthropy, and cultural stewardship in Tampa Bay. Gonzmart has dedicated more than 50 years to growing the Columbia brand, giving back millions through charitable causes and uplifting many organizations that support education, healthcare, law enforcement and the arts.
Last year’s gala raised more than $250,000 to support law enforcement across seven Tampa Bay counties and strengthen the communities they serve and protect. At this year’s gala, presenting sponsor Pepin Family Foundation is matching up to $100,000 of funds raised.
