Every year since October of 1997, during Domestic Violence Awareness month, Safe Space has recognized the ongoing efforts of an outstanding officers of the Butte-Silver Bow Sheriff's Department. These officers are honored for their understanding, patience, and genuine care that encourage and empower victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. They provide information and referrals to community resources, such as Safe Space, that continue to support victims during a difficult time.
In 2021, Safe Space will award one well deserving law enforcement officer and recognize them for their honorable and memorable efforts in supporting victims of domestic violence and their work with Safe Space.
Safe Space staff, volunteers and Board of Directors understand how trying domestic calls can be for first responders, and we appreciate their daily dedication to protecting the safety of victims and their families. With their committed efforts, the Butte community is a safer place to live, and is coming to realize that violence in the home is unacceptable, against the law, and will no longer be tolerated.
Please read below to see Officer of the Year Award Recipients since 1997.
2024 OFFICER OF THE YEAR COMING SOON!!
The following officers have been awarded the Officer of the Year Award in appreciation for services provided to victims of domestic violence above and beyond the call of duty, recognized by Safe Space Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Survivors.
2024- STAY TUNED! 2023- Officer Jake Miller 2022- Officer Sean Brown 2021- Officer Bryce Foley 2020- Officer Rich O'Brien 2019- Officer Rich O'Brien 2018- Officer Bryce Foley 2017- Detective Josh Stearns 2016- Officer Matt Sayler 2015- Sergeant Tim Berger 2014 - Officer Steven Honer from Silver Bow County Deputy Chad Cross from Jefferson County Officer Kris Vauthier from Deer Lodge County 2013 - Officer Ryan Fallang 2012 - Officer Lisa Howe 2011 - Officer Tim Schmidt 2010 - Officer Lew Griffith Officer Dan Murphy* *Recipient of the Above & Beyond Award 2009 - Officer Dan Murphy 2008 - Officer Rhonda Staton 2007 - Officer Dan Murphy 2006 - Officer Dan Murphy 2005 - Officer Ray Vaughn 2004 - Officer Sharman Rask 2003 - Officer John Bleile 2002 - Sgt. Tim Tracy 2001 - Det. George Holland 2000 - Officer Katie Graham 1999 - Officer Jeff Williams 1998 - Sgt. Tim Tracy 1997 - Sgt. James F. Kilmer
2022 Officer of the Year- Sean Brown 2023 Officer of the Year- Jake Miller
2020 Officer of the Year- Rich O' Brien 2021 Officer of the Year- Bryce Foley This is Officer O'Brien's second year in a row winning this award!