Hopi Law Enforcement Services Officer Recognized for Exceptional Valor in the Line of Duty

PHOENIX, Ariz. – Hopi Law Enforcement Services (HLES) Officer Tony Pawasiema was honored on Monday at the U.S. Attorney’s Law Enforcement Awards ceremony for his exceptional valor.

Officer Pawasiema was recognized for rendering life-saving aid to a man who shot him. In 2023, Officer Pawasiema was investigating a burglary call in Sichomovi Village on the Hopi Reservation when he was shot in the chest. Officer Pawasiema returned fire, striking his assailant. He then rendered life-saving aid to the shooter until additional help arrived. Fortunately, Officer Pawasiema was not seriously injured.

Officer Pawasiema was celebrated by members of his family, HLES, and tribal leadership.

As one of only a few HLES officers serving a large geographic area, Officer Pawasiema faces a number of challenges. Despite being fired upon more than once in his six-year career, Officer Pawasiema continues to serve the Hopi community with distinction.
 

RELEASE NUMBER:    2025-006_HLES Officer Pawasiema Valor Award

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For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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