Seneca County Honors Law Enforcement for DWI Enforcement Efforts
Local law enforcement officers were recognized for their efforts in combating impaired driving during the 35th annual STOP-DWI Officer of the Year banquet, held Thursday, March 27, at the Lux Hotel in Seneca Falls.
Hosted by the Seneca County STOP-DWI program, the annual event highlights top-performing officers from each agency in the county based on impaired driving arrests made in 2024.
Seneca County Sheriff and STOP-DWI Coordinator Timothy J. Thompson, Jr. led the ceremony. Guest speakers included Seneca County District Attorney John Nabinger and Assistant Legislator Craig Pemberton, who offered congratulations on behalf of State Senator Tom O’Mara. The evening’s keynote was delivered by State Assemblyman Jeff Gallahan, who addressed the audience with remarks on the dangers and lasting consequences of impaired driving.
Five officers were honored for their individual efforts:
Trooper Kathleen Shea, New York State Police – Junius Ponds
Trooper Austin Bannister, New York State Police – Waterloo
Deputy Glen Addicott, Seneca County Sheriff’s Office
Officer Devin Hathaway, Seneca Falls Police Department
Officer Jacob Webb, Waterloo Police Department
In addition to the individual awards, the New York State Police – Waterloo station received the Agency of the Year award for the third consecutive year, recognized for recording the highest number of impaired driving arrests among local departments.
Sheriff Thompson credited the collaborative efforts behind the county’s ongoing traffic safety efforts.
“I applaud the efforts of the award winners this evening and all of our police officers that continue to rid our streets of dangerous drivers,” Thompson said. “Our success in Seneca County is based on the teamwork of our Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee, STOP-DWI program, and partner agencies.”
The STOP-DWI program, which stands for "Special Traffic Options Program for Driving While Intoxicated," was established in New York State to reduce alcohol- and drug-related traffic incidents through education, enforcement, and support services.