Leesburg, VA (April 27, 2026) – The Leesburg Police Department proudly recognized the achievements, dedication, and service of its personnel during the department’s annual Promotion & Awards Ceremony held last Thursday evening.
The ceremony brought together department members, families, and community partners to celebrate promotions and honor those who have demonstrated exceptional performance, leadership, and commitment to public safety over the past year.
“The men and women of the Leesburg Police Department continue to set a high standard through their professionalism, compassion, and commitment to our community,” said Leesburg Police Chief Thea Pirnat. “Last night’s ceremony was an opportunity to recognize not only individual accomplishments, but the collective effort that makes our department strong. We are proud of each of our honorees and grateful for the families who support them every day.”
Team Excellence Award
This award recognizes department members whose collaborative efforts significantly impact public safety or departmental objectives
• Sgt. Lelia Brickley & Ofc. Gabriela Jimenez
After attending advanced Active Violence Incident training, they developed and led a department-wide, scenario-based training program. Their initiative significantly enhanced officer preparedness for critical incidents.
• Lt. Edward Martin, Lt. Justin Schumer, Sgt. Matthew Wolfe, MPO Gabriel Ascunce, SPO Michael Tilley, PFC Miguel Saunders, PFC Phillip Braven, PFC Carl Ford, & Ofc. Wesley Glass
On December 18, 2025, officers responded to an armed suicidal individual. Through coordinated efforts, de-escalation, and strong command presence, they safely resolved the incident without injury.
• PFC Phillip Braven, PFC Chloe Kopnik, and PFC Miguel Saunders
The Selective Enforcement Team demonstrated exceptional professionalism and adaptability, supporting patrol operations, managing special events, and proactively addressing incidents while strengthening community trust.
Lt. O’Neal H. Stewart Memorial Employee of the Quarter Award
This award recognizes personnel who demonstrate outstanding performance aligned with the department’s mission, vision, and values.
• 1st Quarter 2025 – PFC Chloe Kopnik
Recognized for investigative excellence and strong partnerships, including dismantling an organized retail theft group and recovering over $6,500 in stolen merchandise.
• 2nd Quarter 2025 – MPO Justin Wilt
Recognized for leading the Firearms Program and the transition to the Red Dot Sight system, enhancing officer training, readiness, and safety.
• 3rd Quarter 2025 – MPO Jonathan Graham
Recognized for innovation, investigative excellence, and mentorship, particularly in complex cases involving crimes against children.
• 4th Quarter 2025 – Office Manager Emily Morris
Recognized for professionalism and dedication, supporting department operations, enhancing outreach efforts, and helping coordinate major events.
Distinguished Field Trainer Award: Ms. Cindy Cain
Recognized for delivering high-quality training, mentoring trainees, and adapting instruction to support individual learning and success.
Department Ambassador Award: Ms. Betsy Bennett, Bank of Clarke
Recognized for preventing a financial scam by assisting an elderly customer and coordinating with officers, demonstrating the importance of community partnership.
Volunteer of the Year: Support Team Member, Ms. Jan Hepburn
Recognized for her ongoing dedication to the department and community through volunteer service and support during events and critical incidents.
Civilian of the Year: Communications Technician III, Ms. Chloe Pullen
Recognized for her leadership, mentorship, and commitment during staffing shortages, while continuing to provide exceptional service.
Officer of the Year: MPO Travis Lotz
Recognized for consistently exceeding expectations through technical expertise, leadership, and mentorship. He manages key programs, supports major initiatives such as the school zone speed camera program, and demonstrates professionalism and empathy in every interaction.
Supervisor of the Year: Sgt. Wael Abilmona
Recognized for his commitment to community policing, leadership, and service. He builds strong relationships, supports vulnerable populations, and mentors personnel while balancing operational and community-focused responsibilities.
Promotions & Career Development:
• Communications Technician II: Ms. Alexis Hart
• Communications Technician III: Ms. Chloe Pullen
• Officer First Class: Victor Bendezu, Phillip Braven, Alexander Butynski, Zachary Depoy, Chloe Kopnik & Alexander Noel
• Senior Police Officer: Todd Cockerham & Michael Tilley
• Master Police Officer: Joshua Carter & Jonathan Graham
• Sergeant: Lelia Brickley, Carter Longerbeam, Kevin Orellana, Justin Roberts, Kyle Wagner, & Matthew Wolfe
• Lieutenant: Melissa Codori, Edward Martin, Damian Moreau, & Justin Schumer
• Captain: Bradley Schultz & Robert Spano
• Major: David Smith
Also recognized were those with 5, 10, 15, & 20 years of service with the LPD.
The ceremony was held at the Ida Lee Community Center and sponsored by the Loudoun First Responders Foundation.
