Belleville Police Sergeant Pat Kellar is one of five officers nominated for the Ontario Police Association’s Hero of the Year Award for his compassion and dedication in investigating a historical child abuse case. (Photo: Nicole Kleinsteuber / Quinte News)
Belleville Police Chief Ron Gignac is thanking community members who braved sharing their personal stories in order to recognize the officers who came to their aid and made them feel safe.
During Thursday’s board meeting Gignac noted how five police officers have been nominated for the annual Police Association of Ontario Hero of the Year Award for going above and beyond the call of duty.
Over the past month, Detective Sargent Ian Jarvis, Detective Constable Mark Abrams and Sergeant Pat Kellar, and Constables Todd Bennett and Terri Smith have been nominated.
Emotional stories of heroism all vary from protecting students, reuniting family members, helping assault victims and offering solid advice in times of need.
Chief Gignac admitted given he knows and works with each officer, the nominations don’t surprise him.
He added that what spoke to him in all of the recent media coverage about the officers is how they said it wasn’t about being a hero…they were just doing their job or what came naturally to them.
Nominations close on March 19 and results will be announced in mid-May.
Meanwhile, Constable Pat Comeau was also recognized for his volunteer efforts in organizing a successful first annual Cops, Kids Ice Fishing Derby that saw 373 people in attendance.
Chief Gignac said Comeau and the event are champions for driving an agenda that the BPS wants to move forward with involving more community interaction and engagement.
“This provided great face to face time with kids, parents, grandparents and caregivers,” explained Gignac. “It got kids away from computer screens and learning how to do something outdoors. It enhanced relations. We are expanding this and will continue it.”
