Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin has announced the recipients of the 2025 Excellence in Policing Awards, recognizing law enforcement agencies, officers, and professionals across New Jersey for their exceptional service and dedication.
The awards were established in 2019 to enhance relationships between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve. The ceremony coincides with National Police Week, a time designated by President John F. Kennedy to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice while serving their communities.
A new award was introduced this year to honor Sergeant Joseph Azcona of the Newark Police Division (NPD), who was tragically killed on March 8, 2025. The Sergeant Joseph Azcona Bravery Award was presented to members of his unit for their bravery in reducing gun violence in Newark communities.
"Every day across New Jersey, police officers and law enforcement personnel encounter situations that most of us would never dream of facing," said Attorney General Platkin. "In New Jersey, we are using data to drive down gun violence to record lows."
Other awards included the Detective Joseph Seals Valor Award, honoring Officer Manuel Rodriguez of the Elizabeth Police Department for his courage during a shooting incident on November 6, 2024. The Pablo Santiago Resiliency Award recognized Detective Brad Waudby and Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Renee White for their contributions to officer wellness initiatives.
The Attorney General’s Initiative Award went to four County Prosecutor’s Offices—Hudson, Middlesex, Monmouth, and Union—for developing the ARRIVE Critical Incident Model aimed at reducing violence through mental health interventions.
The Outstanding Community Partnership Award honored Senior Assistant Prosecutor Ashley Angelo and William “Bill” Schievella for strengthening community ties through various programs.
Chaplain Shelly Bell and Rev. Monsignor Eugene “Geno” Sylva received recognition as Police Chaplains of the Year for their support within law enforcement communities.
Lieutenant Sharon Easton and Sergeant Taylor Ensmann with Oakley were awarded for youth engagement efforts that foster stronger relationships between police and young people.
Lastly, Rev. Derrick L. Green received the Attorney General’s Leadership Award for founding the Interfaith Action Movement (IAM) during the COVID-19 pandemic to address needs in marginalized communities.
