Grundy County sheriff honored for traffic safety, DUI enforcement

MORRIS – Illinois Traffic Safety Challenge Director Scott Kristiansen presented Grundy County Sheriff Kevin Callahan with two state awards Sept. 9 recognizing his office's recent win at the Illinois Traffic Safety Challenge.

Kristiansen presented the awards on behalf of the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police. The challenge targets three traffic safety priorities: occupant protection, speeding and impaired driving, according to a news release from the county.

Agencies are evaluated on enforcement initiatives and innovating problem solving in their communities, informing the public and creating policies that support traffic enforcement efforts, Kristiansen said in the news release.

The department received a first-place recognition award in the category “26-50 Sworn Officers” and an agency “Rookie of the Year” award for the best first-time entry in all categories.

Five deputies – Deputy Aaron Cory, Deputy Sean Wojtczak, Sergeant Josh Slattery, Deputy Darren Roach and Deputy Greg Butterfield – were also commended for their DUI enforcement.

Cory, Wojtczak, and Butterfield received commendation certificates from the Alliance Against Intoxicated Motorists. Callahan individually recognized Butterfield and Grundy County No Tolerance Task Force Director Paula Goodwin for their recent Illinois State MADD Hero Awards. It was the second time Butterfield has received the award.

Police agencies are asked to annually nominate to Mothers Against Drunk Driving their top DUI officer and/or exceptional individual who provides or participates in prevention programs and/or works to prevent underage drinking.

Callahan also presented Goodwin and Butterfield with commendation certificates from state Rep. John Anthony, R-Plainfield, for their efforts. Slattery and Roach also received commendation certificates from Anthony.