The Denver Police Foundation held the annual Heroes Awards on Wednesday, honoring Denver Police Department officers for their actions and service to the community. 

“We gather to honor heroes who step into our streets every day, with commitment to serve and protect,” Al Gardener, director of Public Safety, said. “Your bravery is not abstract. It is safer in our streets and neighborhoods because of you. In the lives protected, and in the relationships you create, each day on this job.”

The DPF began in 1991 and provides emotional and financial support to police officers and the department through equipment purchases, school supplies for the families of officers and events.

The “Honoring Our Heroes” gala, held this year at the Hilton Denver City Center, honors officers for their courage and performance in the line of duty. 

“Tonight, you will hear incredible stories of courage and heroism from folks who in those moments when they got called, were able to diffuse, save people’s lives, and protect,” Denver Mayor Mike Johnston said.

The event featured a video presentation highlighting each officer’s actions, including the de-escalation of armed suspects, working to dismantle organized crime and preventing what could have become a prolonged pursuit through downtown Denver. 

The DPD also honored DPF Executive Director Megan Pletcher with an honorary Captain’s badge, a title previously retired by the DPD.

“For several years, we have worked alongside each other to provide safer and better situations for our team,” Chief Ron Thomas said. “I’m so proud of the service you do.”

Following the awards, a live auction was held to raise money for the foundation. Prizes included courtside tickets to the Denver Nuggets and a vacation in Cabo, Mexico. 

The Anschutz Corp. is among the sponsors of the event. The Anschutz Corp. owns Clarity Media Group, the parent company of Colorado Politics and The Denver Gazette. 

The 2026 Honoring our Heroes Award recipients are: 

• Dr. Daniel Jonte – Professional Staff Employee of the Year 

• Sgt. Stacy Schantz – Above and Beyond Award 

• Commander Marion Penn – Chairman’s Legacy Award 

• Officer Nathanial Trobee – Preservation of Life Award 

• Officer Richard Eberharter – Distinguished Service Cross Officer

• Officer William Bartz – Distinguished Service Cross

• Officer Alfonso Carrera – Distinguished Service Cross 

• Officer Jordan Smith – Distinguished Service Cross 

• Sgt. Vince Lombardi – Distinguished Service Cross, Distinguished service cross 

• Corporal Clyde Carmody – Medal Of Valor, Distinguished Service Cross  

• Technician Zachary Moldenhauer – Medal Of Valor 

• Officer Christopher Gergits – Distinguished Service Cross

• Officer John Wickiser – Distinguished Service Cross

• Officer Danniell Consonero – Distinguished Service Cross

• Officer Cory Stuper – Distinguished Service Cross

• Officer Christine Abrams – Distinguished Service Cross

• Officer Jeffery Baran – Medal Of Valor

• Officer Steven Whiteman – Medal Of Valor

• Officer Kirk Malone – Medal Of Valor

• Officer Alec Olguin – Medal Of Valor