Elyria, Ohio-
Sergeant Pablo Cruz, of the Elyria Post, was honored with the Robert M. Chiaramonte Humanitarian Award, which recognizes officers dedicated to humanitarian causes on the highway and in their communities.
Service above self are not just words for Sergeant Cruz. Wanting to make a positive impact on the community, he has been an active member of several organizations including Operation Open Heart, a program dedicated to helping children who are involved with Children Services. Sergeant Cruz is motivated by something greater than himself and he works tirelessly to not only be a good role model, but bring positive change to their lives.
Sergeant Cruz joined the Patrol in April 1998 as a member of the 131st Academy Class. He earned his commission in October of that year and was assigned to the Medina Post. In 2004, he was selected as Post and District Trooper of the Year. He earned the Criminal Patrol Award and the Ace award for excellence in auto larceny enforcement twice. As a trooper, he also served at the Elyria Post. In 2006, he was promoted to the rank of sergeant and transferred to the Ashland Post to serve as an assistant post commander. As a sergeant, he also served at the Medina and Cleveland posts.