Recently, the New York State Sheriff’s Association bestowed awards upon Deputy Brian Hanner, a school resource officer, and correction officers Tara Graves and Keri Genthner for their service.

Hanner was awarded the inaugural Sheriff Ronald Spike School Resource Officer of the Year Award. Presented for the first time in January 2024, the award recognizes Hanner for a May 2023 incident in which Hanner received distressing information about a student. Hanner, alongside the school’s principal, rushed to the student’s home.

“Deputy Hanner’s depth of knowledge of the students in his school, his immediate thought pattern, willingness to engage the situation immediately and effectively, and ability to problem solve and remain calm, undoubtedly saved a child’s life,” said Sheriff Jim Quattrone.

Genthner was awarded the Correction Officer of the Year accolade. Over her decade-long career, Genthner displayed courage and compassion, saving lives during critical incidents, including preventing suicides and overdoses within the facility. Quattrone acknowledged Genthner’s exceptional career, saying, “Over the course of a decade, CO Genthner’s has been primarily responsible for saving at least a half a dozen lives. She constantly and continuously responds with compassion, courage, and professionalism.”

Deputy Brian Hanner awarded the inaugural Sheriff Ronald Spike School Resource Officer of the Year Award.

Quattrone elaborated on Genthner’s noteworthy incidents, detailing her response to an inmate attempting self-harm. Genthner’s quick assessment, call for medical assistance, and securing of the scene showcased her ability to handle critical situations under intense pressure.

Graves was honored with The Carl Draxler Award, recognizing her outstanding career at the Chautauqua County Jail. In March 2009, Graves identified signs of choking during a routine mealtime and performed the Heimlich maneuver to save an inmate. In April 2016, her quick response to a colleague’s stroke resulted in timely medical assistance, minimizing long-term effects. Graves also demonstrated composure in diffusing a potentially harmful situation involving an inmate nearly three times her size in December 2019.

“In addition to her professionalism on the job, Graves has shown devotion towards her co-workers too,” Quattrone said. “She participates in fundraisers for fellow officers battling various medical issues. Specifically in 2023, CO Graves employed her talents as a bass guitar player and lead vocalist for her band to help raise over $200,000 over the course of several fundraisers.”

County Executive PJ Wendel praised the officers for their dedication and highlighted their role in fostering a sense of security within our community. The County Executive emphasized the importance of acknowledging the selfless efforts of law enforcement in ensuring the safety and well-being of Chautauqua County residents.

“On behalf of Chautauqua County residents, I extend our heartfelt gratitude to CO Tara Graves, CO Keri Genthner, Deputy Brian Hanner, and the entire Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office for the sacrifices made on a daily basis to ensure the safety of our community,” Wendel said. “Your commitment and hard work do not go unnoticed, and we are proud to have such exemplary individuals as part of our law enforcement team.”

Corrections officer Tara Graves was honored with The Carl Draxler Award.