BELLEFONTE — Each year the Centre County District Attorney’s Office receives nominations from the public, law enforcement and government agencies of individuals to be recognized for their exceptional work in law enforcement, above and beyond the call of duty. The nominees represent a snapshot of the work that police do in our community every day. The nominees for 2025 are as follows:
Trooper Jonathan Hodges — Pennsylvania State Police
Hodges, of PSP’s Rockview Barracks, transitioned into the criminal investigations unit and quickly established himself as a dependable investigator on some of thE agency’s most complex and demanding cases. He is known for a steady work ethic and a collaborative approach that strengthens coordination across units and agencies. Hodges is particularly noted for his ability to engage with victims and witnesses in a way that builds trust and supports accurate, thorough reporting of facts. His follow-through and attention to detail have proven essential in moving difficult investigations forward. Across all assignments, he consistently demonstrates professionalism, sound judgment, and respect for those involved, reflecting the standards expected of the award.
Detective Lisa Larkin — Bellefonte Police Department
Larkin of Bellefonte is relatively new to her department, but has already made a remarkable impact on the community through her investigative skills and dedication. She is recognized for her ability to elevate those around her and her capacity to remain deliberate and composed in unpredictable or high-pressure situations. Her work reflects a consistent balance of fairness and determination, ensuring that each investigation is handled thoroughly and without bias. Perhaps most significantly, she treats every individual she encounters with unwavering dignity, compassion, and respect. Larkin’s work on challenging and sensitive cases routinely leads to productive outcomes grounded in thorough investigation, careful attention to detail, and a deep understanding of the human consequences in each case
Humane Society Officer Mark Rusnak
Rusnak has demonstrated exceptional professionalism, compassion, and dedication in the protection and welfare of animals within our community. As the first individual to hold this position while also serving as a County Sheriff, Rusnak has taken on this additional responsibility with remarkable commitment and leadership. Through tireless investigative work, strong community engagement, and an unwavering commitment to humane treatment, Rusnak has consistently gone above and beyond in carrying out the
mission of animal protection and public safety. He approaches every case with integrity and empathy, earning the respect of colleagues, partner agencies, and the public alike.
Sergeant Elijah Vardzel — Patton Township Police Department
Vardzel is nominated for his dedication and drive to ensure that projects affecting all of Centre County, not just Patton Township, exist and are implemented. Vardzel is part of the Centre County Crash Reconstruction Team and has ensured that the team has proper training, equipment and personnel to provide crash reconstruction services to local police agencies throughout Centre County. He has also been instrumental in the beginning of the Centre County Internet Crimes Against Children Taskforce. This taskforce will coordinate with the Delaware County District Attorney’s Office, which receives tips from the federal government of child pornography being transmitted to computers in Centre County. Although just beginning, this taskforce will again ensure that local police agencies have information, support and tools to be notified of these internet tips and subsequently investigate and prosecute those crimes.
