ISP honors those dedicated to protecting the public

By Managing Editor | December 10, 2025 |

2024’s ISP Officer, Special Agent, Telecommunicator, Forensic Scientist, Public Safety Staff Member of the Year announced

Illinois State Police (ISP) Director Brendan F. Kelly gathered on Dec. 5, 2025, with ISP staff and their families, local law enforcement officers, and distinguished members of the public for the annual ISP Awards Ceremony. The ceremony was held to recognize individuals for their significant contributions and dedication to public safety in 2024.

Director Kelly presented individuals with the following awards: Director’s Award of Distinction, Medal of Valor, Medal for Honor, Achievement Medal, Purple Heart Medal, Lifesaving Medal, and Meritorious Service Medal. Each award recipient was recognized for their exemplary service to ISP and the residents of Illinois.

“ISP’s greatest strength is our people – Troopers, Specials Agents, Telecommunicators, Analysts, Forensic Scientists” said Kelly. “The people we recognize this year embody ISP’s core values of Integrity, Service, and Pride. Thank you to those who have bravely and selflessly answered the call to pursue justice, protect the public, and serve your community.”

In addition to the Director’s Awards, eight ISP employees received special recognition for exemplary service during 2024. Special recognition was given to the ISP Officer of the Year, Special Agent of the Year, Telecommunicator of the Year, Forensic Scientist of the Year, and Public Safety Support Staff Member of the Year.

2024 Officer of the Year: Trooper Kyle E. DePriest

In 2024, Trooper Kyle DePriest served with distinction as a member of the Statewide Anti-Violence South Team. DePriest’s strong work ethic, advanced skills, and team-focused approach led to the arrest of 70 individuals on 203 criminal charges, the seizure of 45 illegal firearms, nearly two kilograms of a controlled substance, and the recovery of four stolen vehicles. In January 2024, DePriest showed exceptional bravery when a suspect fired a weapon at and struck his squad car during a pursuit. DePriest’s outstanding performance sets a high standard for all ISP officers.

2024 Special Agent of the Year: Special Agent Michael A. Leathers

Special Agent Michael A. Leathers, assigned to Division of Criminal Investigation Zone 1, has demonstrated exceptional dedication and leadership, particularly amid the surge in expressway violence. As a member of the Lake County Major Crimes Taskforce, Leathers responded to multiple homicide investigations and was the primary case agent on seven significant cases involving homicide, domestic battery, threats to officials, and more. Leathers’ thorough investigative work led to four suspects being charged and more than 100 investigative leads completed. His professionalism, intelligence, and unwavering work ethic exemplify the highest standards of ISP.

2024 Telecommunicator of the Year: Telecommunicator Specialist Melissa K. Dearworth

Telecommunicator Specialist (TCS) Melissa K. Dearworth started her career in 2017. She has since demonstrated exceptional knowledge and dedication. Drawing on her law enforcement background, Dearworth has become a valued resource to sworn personnel and new trainees alike. Dearworth’s positive and supportive approach has strengthened the communication center’s morale. Her dependability and team spirit were highlighted on multiple occasions, including Metro East Special Operation Group details. Her steadfast commitment and professionalism set an outstanding example for all ISP employees.

2024 Forensic Scientist of the Year: Forensic Scientist III Aimee C. Stevens

Aimee Stevens serves as a Forensic Scientist III in the Firearms/Toolmarks section at the Forensic Science Laboratory in Chicago. Throughout her career, Stevens has been a model of professionalism, knowledge, and service. Stevens is a highly skilled analyst and her commitment to providing quality forensic science services is exceptional. Stevens maintains this level of productivity while participating in leadership roles for multiple forensic science sections at both state and national levels. Stevens is an example of ISP’s values of Integrity, Service, and Pride. She truly embraces the department’s mission as demonstrated by her work ethic and leadership to the state and forensic science community.

2024 Public Safety Support Staff Member of the Year: Chris D. Miller

Throughout Chris D. Miller’s 27 years of dedicated service, he has demonstrated unwavering commitment, technical expertise, and exemplary leadership. Miller’s time as Bureau Chief of the Radio Network Services Bureau was marked by exceptional service and professionalism. Even after retirement he continued to selflessly support ISP during a critical transition period, showcasing Miller’s dedication to the agency and its mission. Miller played a pivotal role in coordinating radio communications for the Democratic National Convention, which was crucial to the success of the large-scale event, ensuring seamless and secure communication across multiple agencies. Miller’s continuous efforts to advance ISP’s communications infrastructure, mentor colleagues, and foster cooperative relationships across divisions have left a lasting impact on the department.