Three Windsor Police Association Members Named Finalists for the 2023 Police Services Hero of the Year Awards
Last Spring, the Police Association of Ontario (PAO) was thrilled to announce the winners of their 8th annual Police Services Hero of the Year Awards. The awards highlight the best recipients of the public submission nominations to recognize the work of outstanding police personnel who have gone beyond their call of duty to protect and serve their communities.
This Fall, the PAO is travelling across Ontario to highlight finalists and winners in different communities.
PAO President Mark Baxter was in Windsor on Tuesday, October 3, to recognize three outstanding finalists: Retired Constable Terry Dodich, Constable Jeffrey Loewen, and Sergeant Nathan Harris from the Windsor Police Service.
Retired Constable Terry Dodich - 2023 Extra Mile Award - Finalist (A uniform or civilian police service employee who has done a one-time, extraordinary act of kindness or bravery)
Recently retired, Terry's 30-year journey with Windsor Police Service is a testament to his dedication. He also volunteered as a peer counsellor to his colleagues and mentored school-aged youth to encourage them to make positive life decisions. He was instrumental in solving Canada's oldest cold case – the 1971 murder of six-year-old Ljubica Topic - using Investigative Genetic Genealogy. He exemplifies dedication, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to justice.
Constable Jeff Loewen –– Community Role Model 2023 Community Role Model – Finalist (A police officer or civilian police service employee who has made a difference in their community while off-duty)
Jeff has dedicated 30 years of service to the Windsor Police Service. He is also a dedicated volunteer in his community, coaching a local high school football team for over 20 years. Jeff’s nominator, Brian Cyncora, Chapter President at Sleep in Heavenly Peace – Windsor, describes him as an exemplary police officer, serving his community with pride, dignity and honour. Jeff's compassion shines as he volunteers with the organization to end child bedlessness, providing over 350 children with a space for a peaceful night's sleep.
Sergeant Nathan Harris – Police Hero Honour Roll - Finalist (Pays homage to a police officer or civilian police service employee who has made a significant impact over the past decade)
Starting his policing career in 2000 with the London Police Service, he returned to his hometown of Amherstburg in 2001, joining the former Amherstburg Police Service, now Windsor Police Service. In addition to his role as a police officer, Nathan has also been an active volunteer paramedic and youth basketball coach. Nathan has a powerful story of resilience. Despite a traumatic brain injury and extensive injuries throughout his body, Nathan didn’t let adversity keep him down. He worked hard to recover with extensive physiotherapy, learning to walk again and return to work fully. His commitment to serving his community is truly inspirational.
The Police Association of Ontario's Awards Committee (comprised of members-at-large, the President, the Board Chair, and civilian association staff) had the challenging task of selecting the winners from over 240 heartfelt nominations. The volume of incredible stories that outlined the efforts of police personnel in communities throughout the province cannot be understated.