Richard Berlandy, a State Police trooper assigned to the Derby Barracks, has been named one of four finalists across the United States and Canada for the International Association of Chiefs of Police / Motorola Solutions Trooper of the Year Award.
The award recognizes four state troopers and provincial police officers who have demonstrated bravery, courage, leadership, and professionalism in the previous year.
Berlandy was nominated for his heroic actions July 14, 2024, when he and two other troopers, Sgt. Joshua Mikkola and Trooper Jesse Nash, became involved in a pursuit and gun battle in Burke with a wanted fugitive from Rhode Island, and then provided life-saving medical care to the man who attempted to kill them.
“The selection of Trooper Berlandy as a finalist is a recognition of the courage, professionalism and determination he and his fellow troopers demonstrated that July day,” State Police Director Col. Matthew T. Birmingham said.