WASHINGTON, D.C. — The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund has announced the recipients of the 2025 Destination Zero National Officer Safety and Wellness Awards, honoring five police departments for outstanding agency-level programs that improve officer safety and wellness.
Established in 2014, the Destination Zero initiative identifies and promotes innovative practices aimed at reducing line-of-duty deaths and injuries, sharing proven models with law enforcement agencies nationwide, according to NLEOMF.
This year’s winners, selected from over 40 submissions by a panel of experts, are:
- Comprehensive Safety: Madison, Conn. Police Department
- Comprehensive Wellness: Independence, Ohio Police Department
- General Safety: Morton Grove, Ill. Police Department
- Officer Wellness: Newport Beach, Calif. Police Department
- Traffic Safety: Smithfield, Va. Police Department
Award highlights:
Madison (Conn.) Police Department – Comprehensive Safety Equipped with top-tier safety gear and trauma kits, Madison PD patrol vehicles include Level IV rifle plates, AEDs and Narcan. The department integrates de-escalation and crisis intervention training, achieving a use-of-force rate below 0.07% over the past three years. Officer wellness is supported through peer programs and proactive safety measures, including reflective markings and individualized vehicles to reduce cross-contamination.
Independence (Ohio) Police Department – Comprehensive Wellness With a full range of physical, mental and nutritional wellness programs, Independence PD offers on-duty fitness time, free cancer screenings, mental health check-ins and financial wellness resources. The department saw a 50% drop in sick time from 2023 to 2024, saving the city $125,000.
Morton Grove (Ill.) Police Department – General Safety Officers receive monthly scenario-based training and are equipped with advanced protective gear and tactical kits. The department emphasizes readiness through consistent firearms, medical, and defensive tactics instruction. A morale dog and full CIT training also support mental well-being.
Newport Beach (Calif.) Police Department – Officer Wellness Combining physical health with nutrition and financial literacy, Newport Beach PD offers an indoor and outdoor gym, fitness incentives, body scans and healthy meal options. Peer support and professional mental health services are also available.
Smithfield (Va.) Police Department – Traffic Safety Smithfield PD enforces strict seatbelt and driving policies, supported by continuous training in safe emergency vehicle operation. Visibility and scene safety are enhanced through mandatory reflective gear and modern LED lighting on patrol vehicles.
Law enforcement agencies interested in applying for the 2026 awards can submit program details through nleomf.org.
