The Berlin police department recently held a special awards ceremony to recognize two officers for their dedication and exceptional service in 2024.
In the presence of Mayor Rick Miller, borough council and other officers, Police Chief Michael Scheer presented the awards to Joseph Baran, officer of the year for 2024, and Dominic Hodson, who earned the Chief of Police Award for the same year.
Scheer – who was promoted to his position in 2023 – reinstated the annual ceremony last year after several years without it. It will now be an annual event.
“When I became chief,” he said, “I met with every officer to discuss how we could improve as a department. Many expressed their desire to be recognized for outstanding service. It was important to me to bring this tradition back.”
Baran earned his award after a departmental vote.
“He is a young officer who is mature beyond his years,” Scheer noted, “highly engaged in community policing, proactive on the streets and always striving to improve his skills. Baran’s dedication and teamwork have made him a standout officer among his colleagues.”
Hodson was honored for his exceptional work ethic and commitment to the community.
“He is a tireless worker who never turns down overtime,” Scheer pointed out, “participates in numerous community events and consistently ranks among the top officers in service calls, reports and arrests. His professionalism and self-motivation set a strong example for the department.”
Scheer emphasized the importance of spotlighting hard work by officers whose positive reinforcement boosts morale and transparency in the department.
“Too often,” he stated, “officers are only in the spotlight for negative reasons. These awards remind them that their dedication is seen and appreciated.”
The chief also praised ongoing support from the mayor, council and the community.
“In my 22 years of service, I’ve never seen a mayor and council more supportive of our department,” he said. “The residents of Berlin consistently show their appreciation for our officers, and we are committed to going above and beyond for them in return.”
The department plans to strengthen its relationship to residents with various events, including a K-9 car show, the annual Coffee with a Cop and the Junior Police Academy. And the force has recently begun the accreditation process to meet ethical and professional standards.
“Accreditation will help us improve performance while adhering to best practices in law enforcement,” Scheer remarked. “This will further strengthen the bond we have with the Berlin community.”
