Members of the Essex County Sheriff’s Department were recognized with the Medal of Valor at the 29th Annual Excellence in Corrections Awards ceremony held at Mechanics Hall in Worcester on Tuesday.

The event, hosted by the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS), the Massachusetts Department of Correction, and the Massachusetts Sheriffs’ Association, honors correctional professionals from across the Commonwealth for extraordinary service, bravery, and professionalism.

Captain James Comeau, K-9 Officer Peter Karvelas, K-9 Vlad, and Sergeant John Mahoney of the Essex County Sheriff’s Department received the Medal of Valor Group Award for their actions during a dangerous incident in Lawrence on July 3, 2025.

The Medal of Valor Group Award recognizes correctional employees who take action during dangerous incidents to protect others at great personal risk, demonstrating courage above and beyond the call of duty.

On the morning of July 3, thieves robbed a North Andover jewelry store located approximately one-and-a-half miles from the Essex County Pre-Release Center in Lawrence. Authorities reported that multiple armed suspects fled the scene before crashing their vehicle in Lawrence and continuing on foot.

Upon receiving notification from State Police of the active search, Sergeant John Mahoney immediately alerted staff at the Pre-Release Center, confirmed all incarcerated individuals were accounted for, and coordinated security measures as the facility initiated a lockdown.

As law enforcement agencies searched the surrounding area, Captain James Comeau and K-9 Officer Peter Karvelas remained on alert outside the facility. Shortly after noon, information was received that the suspects were hiding beneath a nearby bridge. Captain Comeau, Officer Karvelas, and K-9 Vlad responded to assist in securing the area and successfully located three suspects concealed between bridge supports.

Using coordinated tactics, clear communication, and their extensive training, the team safely took the suspects into custody without incident. Authorities later recovered a backpack containing a firearm.

K-9 Vlad played a critical role in the operation. Prior to the incident, Vlad had undergone extensive treatment for a melanoma tumor in his eye before successfully returning to duty.

“Captain James Comeau, K-9 Officer Peter Karvelas, K-9 Vlad, and Sergeant John Mahoney represent the very best of the Essex County Sheriff’s Department and the corrections profession across Massachusetts,” said Essex County Sheriff Kevin Coppinger. “Their actions demonstrate an unwavering commitment to public safety that extends far beyond the walls of our facilities. Through their courage, professionalism, and dedication to serving others, they help protect and support the safety and well-being of communities throughout the Commonwealth.”

Governor Maura Healey praised this year’s recipients, stating, “This year’s honorees represent the very best of public service. We are deeply grateful for their dedication and proud to honor their exceptional contributions.”

Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll said, “Their actions reflect the critical role correction officers and staff play both inside facilities and throughout our communities. We thank them for their service and congratulate each of this year’s award recipients.”

Public Safety and Security Secretary Gina Kwon added, “This year’s honorees exemplify the dedication and integrity that define the corrections profession and reflect a deep commitment to public safety, rehabilitation, and positive outcomes across the Commonwealth.”

Massachusetts Department of Correction Commissioner Shawn Jenkins said, “These awards are an opportunity to recognize the meaningful work our correctional professionals perform on a daily basis. While much of this work is done outside of public view, the impact of their dedicated service is felt in communities across the state.”

Massachusetts Sheriffs’ Association President and Hampshire County Sheriff Patrick Cahillane stated, “The contributions correctional professionals make to communities across the Commonwealth often happen outside the limelight, but their impact is deeply felt every day.”

The Excellence in Corrections Awards recognize correctional professionals throughout Massachusetts whose actions exemplify exceptional service, leadership, and dedication to public safety.