Sheriffs Deputies Honored with 2024 Deputy of the Year Award by NYS Sheriffs Institute

ALBANY – Delaware County Sheriff Craig DuMond is proud to announce that Corporal Kyle Karcher, Deputy Justin Mohr, and Deputy Victor Altheim of the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office have been awarded the prestigious Deputy of the Year Award from the New York State Sheriffs' Institute, January 21, 2025, at their Annual Winter Conference, in recognition of their heroic actions in the line of duty.

On September 4, 2024, all three deputies responded to a shots fired call in the Town of Hancock, where they exhibited extraordinary bravery.  The deputies arrived on the scene to find that a victim had been shot while walking his dog and had retreated into his residence with his girlfriend as the perpetrator allegedly continued firing at their home.

Demonstrating proficient tactical skills, the deputies formulated a rescue plan for the victims.  While Deputy Altheim provided cover, Corporal Karcher and Deputy Mohr navigated overgrown and difficult terrain to reach the victims.  The deputies successfully extricated both victims from the house and utilized their vehicles to transport them to the safety of awaiting EMS personnel.  The shooting victim, presenting significant blood loss, was swiftly treated by EMS personnel and transported by Life Net helicopter for treatment of his injuries.  The swift action by these deputies facilitated the urgent medical care of the shooting victim. 

Sheriff Craig DuMond commended the Deputies for their courage and unwavering dedication to public safety. “Their actions on that day embody the highest standards of law enforcement professionalism and selflessness,” said Sheriff DuMond. “Their bravery and commitment to protecting our citizens reflect the very best of the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office.”

Sheriff DuMond expressed his gratitude to all the emergency responders involved in the incident as well as the NYS Police.  Additionally, he thanked the New York State Sheriffs' Institute for recognizing the outstanding efforts of his deputies and reaffirmed his agency’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all Delaware County residents.