Public Safety Awards

Acworth Police Department

Corporal Mistretta joined the Acworth Police Department in 2019 and quickly demonstrated his leadership capabilities. During that time, the department was in the early stages of planning a free, week-long day camp for middle school students in the community. Cpl. Mistretta volunteered to join the planning group, bringing valuable insights and identifying key leaders to serve as counselors. His leadership has been instrumental in the continued success of this camp, which has become an annual event.

In addition to leading his fellow officers, Cpl. Mistretta serves as the lead advisor for the Acworth Police Cadets program, where his guidance has had a profound impact on the students, helping them grow into exceptional leaders among their peers.

Cpl. Mistretta also holds several key roles within the department: Public Information Officer, Coordinator for the Citizens Police Academy, Lead Advisor and President of the Police Cadets program, Board Member and Treasurer of the Acworth Police Community Foundation, Recruiter and Coordinator for the hiring program, Representative on the City-wide Communications Committee, and Social Media Coordinator for the agency. This list is not exhaustive, as he takes on many additional responsibilities and excels in all of them.

Despite his extensive workload, Cpl. Mistretta remains highly self-critical, always seeking ways to improve the services he provides and striving to do the best job possible. His tenacity and dedication are unmatched, and the Acworth Police Department has thrived as a result of his contributions.

Acworth Police Department

This officer joined the Acworth Police Department in 2018 and quickly distinguished himself as a leader among his peers. His positive attitude not only supports his colleagues but also boosts overall staff morale. When a position became available, his natural leadership abilities made him the clear choice for deployment to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) as a Task Force Officer.

While serving with the DEA, he frequently works undercover, engaging with dangerous drug traffickers across Georgia, the United States, and internationally. In this role, he excels in developing innovative solutions that lead to the disruption and dismantling of large-scale drug trafficking and money laundering operations.

On May 29th, 2023, this officer encountered a woman attempting suicide on the N. Booth Road bridge over I-575. He immediately called Cobb 911 for additional assistance and engaged with the woman. She had positioned herself on the outside of the fence with a precarious grip on the bridge’s concrete section and had Christmas lights looped around her neck, intending to hang herself. Thanks to his quick thinking and compassionate approach, he was able to keep her calm and prevent further harm. When additional units arrived, he successfully brought the woman back to safety, allowing her to be transported to the emergency room for care. His actions likely saved her life.

Cobb County E911

In 2023, Desmond Harris stepped into a newly created role within the Cobb County Department of Emergency Communications, tasked with overseeing recruitment and public education. He eagerly embraced the challenge, introducing innovative strategies to represent the department and engage with the community.

Desmond remarked, “Our number is on every police car and fire truck in the county, but no one knows who we are. We give people life-saving instructions over the phone but rarely get to meet the lives we’ve saved.” To bridge this gap, he organized 112 events aimed at enhancing public interaction and education, personally attending nearly 90 of them.

In the fall of 2023, Desmond collaborated with Kennesaw State University Media and Entertainment Professor Bobby Gutierrez and his moMENTum Productions course to produce recruitment videos for the department. This initiative not only provided valuable experience for the students but also significantly boosted the department’s outreach efforts.

Desmond’s contributions have led to a more informed public, increased interest in emergency communications careers, and enhanced the agency’s reputation as a leading 911 center in the nation.

Cobb County Police Department

On June 27, 2023, Detective Allen was assigned a custody dispute case that had been ongoing for two years. The child involved was 6 years old when her mother abducted her, despite the father having sole custody. By the time Detective Allen took over the case, the child had been missing for two years.

Prior to Detective Allen’s involvement, the City of Austell Police Department had investigated the incident and secured a warrant for the mother’s arrest. However, the child was not with her at the time, and her whereabouts remained unknown. Detective Allen tirelessly pursued every lead to locate the missing girl. He identified several individuals who appeared to be assisting the mother in hiding the child and obtained search warrants for their phones, generating leads that he meticulously followed over the next 11 months. During this time, the mother bonded out of jail and manipulated the court system to avoid returning the child.

In July 2023, Detective Allen, along with Sgts. Holland and Loiselle, coordinated with the VIPER Unit to set up a surveillance operation at several addresses where they suspected the child might be. Shortly into the operation, VIPER took the mother into custody and recovered the child. The child was brought back to the SVU office and reunited with her father within a few hours.

During the nearly 13 months Detective Allen worked on this case, he refused to give up, demonstrating unwavering determination. His tenacity ultimately led to the breakthrough that resolved the case, bringing the little girl back home to her father.

Cobb County Police Department

Officer Castaneda exemplified the importance of remaining calm in dangerous situations on May 20, 2023, when he responded to a call at a pool party where a six-year-old girl was reported to be drowning. Arriving before Fire and EMS, Officer Castaneda encountered a chaotic scene. A woman met him in the driveway, carrying an unconscious, non-breathing child.

Without hesitation, Officer Castaneda began administering chest compressions, maintaining his focus despite the turmoil around him. He clearly communicated the necessary actions to those nearby, and after a few tense moments, the child was revived. He then placed her in the recovery position, allowing her to expel water from her lungs. The child was quickly transported to Scottish Rite Children’s Hospital for further evaluation.

Thanks to Officer Castaneda’s swift and decisive actions, the little girl made a full recovery. His efforts reflect great credit on himself, the Precinct Two evening shift, and the Cobb County Police Department.

Cobb County Police Department

Officer Tierssa Grostic consistently exceeds her duties, driven by a deep passion for giving back to her community. She has volunteered with various groups to support students, underprivileged children, and those with special needs.

In January 2024, Officer Grostic completed the training required to present “Habitudes” to students at Kennesaw Mountain High School. In collaboration with North Metro Church, local business leaders, and the school, Habitudes focuses on teaching leadership and life skills to young adults. Officer Grostic has been assigned a class and will continue working with these students throughout the program, helping to instill essential life lessons in the next generation.

Additionally, Officer Grostic is involved with the Horizon League, affiliated with The Special Needs Development Group, a local nonprofit organization. The organization’s mission is to provide children and adults with physical, social, and cognitive disabilities the opportunity to participate in adaptive programs. Officer Grostic participated in a spring baseball game with her shift and then, on her own, began volunteering for additional spring and fall baseball games, their kickball league, and corn hole. The director of the Horizon League estimates that Officer Grostic has volunteered more than 50 hours over the past year, which is remarkable, as she does this on her own time.

Officer Grostic approaches her career with a positive and enthusiastic attitude, brightening every room she enters with her contagious smile. She brings that same energy to her volunteer work, making a significant impact on children in need within the community.

Cobb County Police Department

Sergeant William Nerio has made significant strides in his 16 years with the Cobb County Police Department, particularly in improving community relations. Originally from El Salvador, Sergeant Nerio moved to the United States in his early 20s with limited English skills but a strong desire to become a police officer. He pursued higher education, earning both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree, before joining the Cobb County Police Department.

As the Hispanic Liaison for the Community Affairs Unit, Sergeant Nerio played a crucial role in bridging the gap between the police department and Cobb County’s rapidly growing Hispanic community. His efforts have demonstrated that the department represents all citizens.

Sergeant Nerio also cultivated relationships with diplomats from Central and South American countries, attending events with consular officials from Mexico, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Brazil. His work led to the first-ever summit between the Cobb County Police Chief and representatives of several Spanish-speaking nations, strengthening ties and fostering trust. His dedication to improving the lives of Cobb County residents is both inspiring and impactful.

Cobb County Police Department

Officer Thomas Weldon exemplified bravery and commitment on September 19, 2023, when he responded to a robbery in progress at a Chevron gas station. The 911 dispatcher reported that a clerk was being held at gunpoint by a violent suspect. Officer Weldon was the first to arrive and, despite the imminent danger, entered the store alone to protect the lives of those inside.

Approaching the suspect tactically, Officer Weldon issued loud commands for the suspect to drop his weapon. The suspect complied, and Officer Weldon safely took him into custody without further incident. His quick thinking and courage in the face of danger prevented the situation from escalating.

Officer Weldon’s actions highlight his dedication to protecting others, even at great personal risk.

Kennesaw Police Department

Officer David Hubbartt, who joined the Kennesaw Police Department in January 2021 after five years with the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office, serves his community as part of the Night Watch team. On March 16, 2024, while returning from an Atlanta United game with his family, Officer Hubbartt heard what sounded like a gunshot on the train.

As passengers scattered, Officer Hubbartt identified an individual holding a firearm. Without hesitation, he subdued the suspect, using his training to neutralize the threat until MARTA Police arrived. Although the sound was later determined to have been caused by a metal latch, the individual was found to be in possession of a stolen firearm.

Officer Hubbartt’s quick thinking and decisive action prevented a potentially dangerous situation from escalating. His commitment to protecting others, even off duty, is commendable.

Kennesaw State University DPS & University Police Department

In March 2024, Officer Zachary Sherer saved the life of a one-week-old infant who was choking and struggling to breathe. Officer Sherer was flagged down in the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta parking lot by the infant’s frantic family, who believed their baby had stopped breathing. Unbeknownst to them, the healthcare center was closed.

Officer Sherer immediately notified dispatch and began performing first aid on the infant, successfully clearing the airway and restoring the baby’s breathing. He monitored the child until EMS arrived and transported the infant to the hospital. Thanks to Officer Sherer’s prompt and effective response, the infant’s life was saved, sparing the family from a tragic loss.

Kennesaw State University DPS & University Police Department – The SAFE Center

Dr. Tanya Smith has dedicated over 29 years to law enforcement, victim advocacy, and non-profit organizations. As a lifelong learner, she has encouraged those around her to improve the profession and the lives of others.

From October 2023 to March 2024, Dr. Smith, as Executive Director of The SAFE Center, led the establishment of a campus resource dedicated to a comprehensive and forensic response to sexual assault, domestic violence, stalking, and strangulation. She secured four grants totaling $323,000, funding vital staff salaries and supplies. Dr. Smith also created Georgia’s first soft interview room, providing a safe and comfortable setting for victims.

Her passion for helping others has left an indelible mark on KSU, creating a safer and more supportive environment for students, faculty, and staff.

Marietta Police Department

Officer Yvette Collazo is a team leader whose enthusiasm for her work motivates fellow officers. She offers guidance to less experienced colleagues, and her dedication to bridging the gap between law enforcement and Spanish-speaking community members has been invaluable.

Officer Collazo has translated numerous police documents, providing essential resources to underserved community members. She has also proven herself in the field, recently being the first on the scene of a potential shooting. Her quick thinking allowed fellow officers to enter a barbed-wired facility and reach the victim in time.

Officer Collazo’s commitment to her community and her fellow officers makes her an indispensable asset to the Marietta Police Department.

Marietta Police Department

On September 23, 2023, Officer Isaac Moore responded to a serious accident on Interstate 75 South, where two women had been struck outside their vehicle. One woman had a partially severed right leg and a completely severed left leg.

Remaining calm amidst the chaos, Officer Moore applied tourniquets to both of the woman’s legs, saving her life. A Grady Memorial Hospital physician later confirmed that Officer Moore’s quick actions not only saved her life but also preserved her legs.

MetroAtlanta Ambulance Service

Paramedic Jessica Ginsberg is dedicated to her patients and coworkers. Residing in Auburn, she commutes daily to Cobb County, always arriving on time and with a positive attitude. Jessica is known for her outstanding patient care and her willingness to go above and beyond to improve herself.

Recently, Jessica has taken on more leadership roles, and her colleagues appreciate her guidance. Her passion for mentoring new paramedics makes her a sought-after leader in the field.

Powder Springs Police Department

On March 17, 2024, Officers Andre Morrison and former Powder Springs Police Officer DeJuante Miller rescued three children from deplorable conditions in their household. The children were taken into DFACS custody, and both parents were arrested.

Officer Morrison’s professionalism, compassion, and dedication were recognized by Ms. Walsh, a Cobb County DFACS case manager, who praised their efforts in keeping the children calm, entertained, and safe. Their actions made a significant difference in the lives of these young children.

Smyrna Fire Department

Engineer Jacob Moore has been a leader within the Smyrna Fire Department since he joined. While attending recruit school, Moore was always ready to assist his fellow recruits in whatever they needed to succeed.

Moore routinely helps aspiring firefighters, both within his department and in other departments, to successfully complete their rigorous training. He attends nearly every class, offering support to the organizations and his colleagues. Moore has mentored countless members of the Smyrna Fire Department, guiding them in daily duties, study habits, and more to ensure they reach their full potential. He even went as far as cutting the grass at a fellow firefighter’s home while that firefighter was focused on paramedic school, ensuring he could concentrate on his studies and clinicals.

Moore consistently demonstrates sound judgment and makes critical decisions at emergency scenes. In one instance, he responded to a motor vehicle accident on the East-West Connector, accompanied by a younger, less experienced firefighter. Upon arrival, he located a female driver, her husband, and their young child. The female driver was acting erratically, and it would have been easy to dismiss her behavior as substance abuse. However, Moore conducted a thorough assessment and quickly identified a closed head injury as the cause, expediting her treatment.

Moore is an excellent communicator who continually learns and adapts. He has helped others overcome both professional and personal challenges, always maintaining a positive attitude and offering support when needed. His unwavering commitment to protecting his community, supporting his family, and helping those around him is unparalleled.