Don Bridick
Don Bridick was named Madison County Deputy Sheriff of the Year Tuesday at the Pontoon Beach Masonic Lodge.
Madison County Sheriff Robert Hertz selected Bridick who has a 40-year career in law enforcement.
"Madison County is a better place to live due to Don Bridick's commitment to professional police service," Hertz said.
Former Sheriff Bob Churchich hired Bridick to become the first director of Courthouse security on Dec. 1, 1986. Before his hire, the Madison County Courthouse had no security, not even a deputy stationed there.
Bridick began his career in law enforcement in 1967 as a telecommunicator for the city of Madison. He was appointed to patrolman in 1970, and from 1974-77 served in a dual capacity as the juvenile officer and investigator for the Madison Police Department.
On May 1, 1977, Bridick was appointed as Madison police chief and served in that capacity until his appointment to courthouse security director.
"He has performed his duties in an exemplary fashion as there has not been a breach in security since the courthouse security function has been in place," Hertz said.
Hertz also said that while some people believe the designation should be given to someone who has saved a life, been severely injured, or solved a big case, there are those who are deserving for their daily commitment to doing a good job, and are loyal to the organization and to the law enforcement profession.
"This in a nut shell is Don Bridick," Hertz said. "He is always there to work, does a good job, and instills the qualities of good police work in the deputy sheriff's who work for him."
"Frankly, Don Bridick does a good job and deserves to be recognized for his long term commitment to law enforcement and the citizens of Madison County."