Women’s Resource Center of Northern Michigan presented the Excellence in Service Award to Deputy Mark Hazen with the Emmet County Sheriff’s Office for his work in responding to and investigating domestic abuse cases. Pictured (from left) are Christine Burke, Emmet County Prosecutor’s Office assistant prosecuting attorney; Madelyn Slamka, Women’s Resource Center of Northern Michigan advocate; Hazen; Katelyn Morse, Emmet County Prosecutor’s Office victims advocate and witness coordinator; and Sheriff Pete Wallin.

Deputy Mark Hazen of the Emmet County Sheriff’s Office earned an Excellence in Service Award for his work responding to and investigating domestic abuse cases.

Women’s Resource Center of Northern Michigan (WRCNM) recognizes law enforcement officers with this annual award in the five counties they serve as part of October’s National Domestic Abuse Awareness Month. Award recipients demonstrate a strong knowledge and understanding of the complexities of domestic violence.

Other honorees for the 2022 Excellence in service award included: Undersheriff Kevin Hoch, Antrim County Sheriff’s Department; Assistant Police Chief Dan Mercer, Boyne City Police Department; Deputy Daniel Stacks, Cheboygan County Sheriff’s Department; and Trooper Joseph Duff, Michigan State Police Gaylord Post.

Pete Wallin, Emmet County Sheriff, said Hazen has been a valued member of the agency for five years.

“Hazen is a well-rounded, great person; I wish I had about 20 more of him. He takes his job very seriously; he’s very thoughtful and truly cares about survivors.”

Wallin said that Hazen cares about each individual he comes in contact with and ensures their needs are met, especially survivors of domestic violence.

“When Mark Hazen has to deal with domestic violence cases, I rest assured that he’s doing the right thing and survivors can get the help they deserve,” Wallin said.

Madelyn Slamka, an advocate with the Women’s Resource Center of Northern Michigan said, “Deputy Hazen shows a commitment to doing good and treating survivors with respect and kindness. I’m thankful to have allies like him in the Emmet County Sheriff’s Office.”