GENERALLY SPEAKING / From the desk of Gentner Drummond
E arlier this year, my office launched a program to recognize some of Oklahoma’s outstanding law enforcement officers who work tirelessly to protect their communities and keep the public safe. I am pleased we received more than 40 nominations from law enforcement leaders across the state for this inaugural Oklahoma Officer of the Year Award.
All nominated officers demonstrate the courage, diligence and professionalism that exemplify the finest tradition of Oklahoma law enforcement. Recently we revealed the four 2024 Regional Officers of the Year who are now eligible for the statewide Officer of the Year Award. Awardees were selected by panels comprised of city, county, tribal and state criminal justice professionals. The regional awardees are: Detective Lauren Cunningham, Oklahoma City Police Department, Northwest Region A 16-year veteran of the Oklahoma City Police Department, Detective Cunningham has been lauded for the painstaking work she and her partner did investigating an April 1, 2023, triple murder at the Whiskey Barrel Saloon. They spent weeks assembling video, photographs and 3D imaging technology to show the movements of the defendants at the crime scene. Because the slayings allegedly stemmed from a dispute between biker gangs, Cunningham also delved into the intricacies of that culture. Her efforts resulted in the arrest and charging of 15 defendants.
Trooper Derek Fry, Oklahoma Highway Patrol, Northeast Region On March 24, 2023, the suspect in a Kansas armed robbery was racing southbound on I-35 at speeds over 100 mph, eluding OHP troopers for more than 45 miles. The suspect had told Kansas bank employees he had a bomb. With lethal force having been authorized, Trooper Fry fired on the speeding car. The suspect lost control of the vehicle and fled on foot in the direction of a populated area. Fry and fellow troopers gave chase. Seeing the suspect armed and taking position to ambush troopers, Fry fatally shot the man. He was one of two recipients of the 2023 Trooper of the Year Award.
Master Police Officer Benjamin Gomez, Norman Police Department, Southwest Region The eight-year veteran of the Norman Police Department was named NPD’s 2023 Officer of the Year. Department leaders commended Gomez for his exemplary work in “all facets of our profession,” including more than 360 hours in community outreach. He earned particular praise for two incidents. In March 2023, Gomez’s quick actions on an emergency call saved a 2-year-old who had been choking. In a separate case, he and fellow officers conducted many hours of surveillance that led to the eventual arrest of a couple charged with trafficking fentanyl.
Deputy Austin Murray, Bryan County Sheriff’s Office, Southeast Region On Aug. 11 of this year, Bryan County Sheriff’s Deputy Murray responded to a domestic disturbance concerning a man in a pickup who had chased his fleeing wife and two children. The truck had struck the wife’s vehicle, forcing her to crash into a tree off a rural highway. Murray drew his pistol as soon as the suspect reached for a gun tucked inside his pants. The suspect jumped behind his truck and the two exchanged gunfire. Murray was hit three times before he was able to get a clear shot at the suspect, who collapsed and surrendered shortly thereafter.
These officers stand out as extraordinary professionals steadfast in their commitment to protect and serve – no matter the cost.
In early December, we will name our first-ever Oklahoma Officer of the Year. I look forward to recognizing our nominees, regional award winners and statewide award winner. But it is important to underscore that the greatness of those in law enforcement extends well beyond these individuals. Each day, all Oklahomans benefit from the quiet heroism of men and women who embody the highest standards of excellence.
