Top Officer, Telecommunicator, and Forensic Scientist Honored for Their Actions and Accomplishments.

Springfield, IL – Illinois State Police (ISP) Director Leo Schmitz was joined by ISP command staff members today to recognize the noble contributions made by sworn and civilian members of the Illinois State Police, government agencies and the public. 

The 38th Annual Awards Ceremony was held at Glenwood High School in Chatham, Illinois and paid tribute to the acts of heroism and professionalism displayed by approximately 50 men and women who were honored during the event.  Each awardee was recognized for their exemplary service to the ISP and the citizens of Illinois.

"The men and women of the Illinois State Police are dedicated individuals who are committed to protecting and serving the citizens of Illinois. Their professionalism and pride for this agency are evident in their daily activities," said ISP Director Leo Schmitz.  "Today we are also recognizing personnel from other agencies as well as brave citizens who stepped up to assist the ISP in our public safety efforts.  We are grateful for the outstanding efforts and sacrifices of all of these extraordinary men and women," he added.

Among the award recipients were three individuals who received special recognition for exemplary service:  Special Agent Patrick R. McGuire - Officer of the Year; Ms. Ann M. Hart - Telecommunicator of the Year; and Dr. Kimberly S. Kunkler - Forensic Scientist of the Year.

Officer of the Year, Special Agent Patrick R. McGuire 

Assigned to Zone 6, Special Agent Patrick R. McGuire exemplifies the tenets of the Illinois State Police – Integrity, Service, and Pride.  His motivation and desire to excel are evident by his performance.  Selected to investigate some of the most heinous crimes, Special Agent McGuire often is sought out by other agencies and investigators for his expertise and guidance.  A member of the Greater St. Louis Area Major Case Squad and Illinois Child Death Investigative Team, Special Agent McGuire demonstrates a selfless attitude that is recognized and emulated by his peers.  He consistently goes above and beyond the call of duty during work hours and his personal time.  Of his numerous cases in 2014, two were infant deaths, three were homicides, and seven were sexual assaults, with six cases resulting in criminal charges.

Special Agent McGuire worked several complex cases, including an Aggravated Criminal Sexual Abuse investigation involving a child that occurred 18 years earlier.  The incident originally was reported to Mormon Church leaders who decided not to notify authorities and handle the matter internally.  The detailed and well-researched efforts of Special Agent McGuire led to the serving of a search warrant resulting in the discovery of documentation supporting the victim’s claim.  This was the first search warrant successfully served against the Mormon Church and ultimately led to the conviction of the suspect.  In May 2014, Special Agent McGuire responded to a bomb threat at Calhoun County High School.  He brought a sense of calm and reassurance to the scene that immediately deescalated the situation.  His outstanding interview skills and perseverance resulted in a teacher confessing to the threat.  The incident gained significant national media attention, and the teacher subsequently was convicted on federal charges.

Telecommunicator of the Year, Ms. Ann Hart 

Telecommunicators nominated for the ISP Telecommunicator of the Year Award must display a combination of the following qualifications and characteristics:  outstanding contribution in the area of assignment; exceptional knowledge and ability to complete job functions; initiative to expand knowledge through attendance in college courses or seminars; civic contributions; and professional appearance and demeanor. 

Telecommunicator of the Year Nominees:

Ms. Cynthia S. Akins, District 16              

Ms. Karla Carey, District 2

Ms. Melanie E. Clark, District Chicago

Ms. Ann M. Hart, Pontiac Communications Center

Mr. Tavis Fivek, District 17

Ms. Brenda S. Landheer, District 7

Ms. Jeanne D. Lewis, Springfield Communications Center

Ms. Kathleen A. Lynn, District 5

Ms. Yvonne M. Murray, DuQuoin Communications Center

Ms Cynthia Ruiz, District 15

Ms. Pamela M. Stalcup, Collinsville Communications Center

Ms. Mindy R. Starr, District 1

Forensic Scientist of the Year Award

Nominees for the ISP Forensic Scientist of the Year Award must display a combination of the following qualifications and characteristics:  superior performance of an individual regarding casework; superior job performance; actions which exceed everyday operations; and extraordinary community service or exceptional community involvement. 

Forensic Scientist of the Year nominees:

Mr. James A. Coglianese, Joliet Forensic Science Laboratory

Ms. Denise A. Hanley, Morton Forensic Science Laboratory

Mr. Aaron M. Horn, Metro-East Forensic Science Laboratory

Ms. Tina S. Joyce, Forensic Science Center at Chicago

Ms. Kimberly S. Kunkler, Springfield Forensic Science Laboratory

Mr. David A. Welte, Rockford Forensic Science Laboratory