ECSD Sgt. James Ridley, STAR program earn top honors from Massachusetts Sheriffs' Association
MIDDLETON — The Essex County Sheriff’s Department received two top honors from the Massachusetts Sheriffs’ Association (MSA), including Correctional Supervisor of the Year for Sgt. James Ridley and Program of the Year for its Supporting Transitions And Re-entry (STAR) Program.
Sergeant Ridley, a Lynn resident and a 19-year veteran of ECSD, received Correctional Supervisor of the Year for exhibiting outstanding leadership during critical situations, including performing CPR and directing life-saving efforts for an unresponsive individual, as well as administering Narcan to save another man’s life during a medical emergency.
“These are just a few examples of Sgt. Ridley jumping into action to prevent death and serious injury as he frequently does with his quick-thinking and excellent communication and de-escalation skills,” said ECSD Sheriff Kevin F. Coppinger. “He is often a resource for correctional officers who have developed trust in him, not just because of his job performance during critical moments, but because of his commitment to integrity.”
The STAR Program with offices in both Lynn and Lawrence is a community-based program providing support, supervision, and services to justice-involved individuals, The goal of the program is to keep people out of the justice system by using community partnerships and wrap-around services to provide clinical, educational, and vocational services to help individuals thrive in their communities. Opened in April 2022, the STAR program saw over 400 referrals in its first year and assisted 135 participants.
“Nearly 80 percent of these STAR participants joined our program voluntarily, highlighting the dedicated and compassionate staff who go above and beyond to ensure clients have the tools and services they need to be successful,” Coppinger said. “Because of these dedicated individuals, the STAR Program is reducing recidivism while making our communities safer, while also providing a second chance to so many people in need.”
The award ceremony was held Tuesday, Nov. 14 at the Massachusetts Statehouse and highlighted stories of heroism, dedication, and innovation within the law enforcement and corrections communities.
“So much of our work as corrections and law enforcement professionals happens away from the public and out of the spotlight. I’m happy that we’re taking a statewide look at these amazing individuals and their stories of bravery, as they save and change lives,” said Hampden County Sheriff Nick Cocchi, President of the Massachusetts Sheriffs’ Association.
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey was the esteemed guest speaker at the ceremony, offering words of praise and gratitude for the award recipients.
“The law enforcement and corrections professionals celebrated today go above and beyond each and every day to keep our communities safe and strong. It is a privilege to honor their courage and compassion, and on behalf of Massachusetts, we thank them for their dedicated service to our communities,” said Massachusetts Gov. Maura T. Healey.
The Massachusetts Sheriffs' Association commends these exemplary professionals for their dedication, professionalism, and service. Their efforts continue to inspire positive change, improving outcomes for those individuals returning to our communities, and making Massachusetts a safer and more resilient state.
The Massachusetts Sheriffs’ Association supports, promotes, and advocates for each of the 14 Sheriff’s Offices in the Commonwealth. The MSA facilitates cooperative and collaborative relationships among the Sheriffs for the purpose of developing standardized training, providing governance over shared projects, discussing operational best practices, and evaluating research and data on matters of mutual interest and concern. The MSA improves public safety by promoting a greater understanding of issues impacting the Massachusetts Sheriffs and by bringing together law enforcement and criminal justice professionals.
