Honoring Leadership and Collaboration: 2025 Mental Health and Law Enforcement Awards

Award Recipients

The Massachusetts Department of Mental Health (DMH) is proud to continue its annual tradition of recognizing excellence among clinicians and law enforcement professionals who demonstrate unwavering commitment to individuals experiencing behavioral health challenges. Each year, the Mental Health and Law Enforcement Awards celebrate those whose dedication, compassion, and leadership create safer and more supportive communities across the Commonwealth.

This year, the Awards Committee was presented with an extraordinary number of nominations. The caliber of candidates reflected a depth of passion and innovation that made the selection process both inspiring and difficult. We extend heartfelt congratulations not only to the recipients but also to the many nominees who exemplify this vital work.

In addition to the annual awards, DMH is pleased to present a Special Recognition Award to the Framingham Police Department, honoring more than two decades of pioneering leadership in co-response and jail diversion. Framingham has also played a unique role in mentoring and guiding other departments statewide, helping to shape systemic improvements at the intersection of mental health and public safety.

The 2025 award recipients were formally honored in a ceremony at the Worcester Recovery Center and Hospital: 

2025 Award Categories and Recipients

Karin Orr Memorial Award

Presented to a clinician who embodies Karin’s remarkable spirit of collaboration, consistently goes above and beyond to support others, and demonstrates excellence in both clinical skills and teamwork.

- Lucy Delrossi, LICSW, Sturbridge Police Department

- Robin Reid, LICSW, Boxford, Georgetown, Groveland, Newbury, and Rowley Police Departments

Law Enforcement Exemplary Performance Award

Recognizing a police officer who demonstrates exceptional dedication, energy, and passion for public safety while assisting individuals facing mental health, trauma, or other behavioral health challenges. This award is given for heroic efforts and/or significant contributions to JDP, CIT, or Co-response programs.

- Trooper Matthew Cunha, Massachusetts State Police, Troop F, Logan International Airport

- Officer Nicole McLaughlin, Chelsea Police Department

Law Enforcement Leadership Award

Honoring a police administrator who demonstrates exceptional leadership, dedication, and vision in improving systemic responses for individuals in behavioral health crisis. This award recognizes leaders who make a lasting impact within their department, community, and region.

- Lt. William Schlieman, Brockton Police Department

- Chief Beth Bezio, Ashfield Police Department

Special Recognition Award

- Framingham Police Department

These award recipients represent the very best of Massachusetts’ collaborative efforts to bridge the worlds of law enforcement and mental health. Their work reflects a shared commitment to compassion, public safety, and systemic change.

Congratulations to all of this year’s honorees and nominees!