Cochise County Honors Law Enforcement At 2025 TOP COP Ceremony

Last week, Cochise County honored outstanding law enforcement officers from a variety of local agencies. The annual 2025 TOP COP ceremony was held during National Police Week.

Willcox Department of Public Safety Officer Dillon Faccio & Chief Hadfield | Photo courtesy the Cochise County Sheriff's Office.

The annual tradition recognizes officers who have demonstrated exceptional service and dedication in our community.

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Arizona Department of Transportation/ECD Officer Dale Rachilla Lt. Dopadre | Photo courtesy the Cochise County Sheriff's Office.

Selecting the Top Cop in Cochise County

The Legacy Foundation of Southeast Arizona oversees the selection process for the TOP COP award. The local foundation lends its efforts to ensure an unbiased nomination process.

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Arizona Department of Public Safety Trooper Eric Mercer, S.M. Enrico, and Captain Chase | Photo courtesy the Cochise County Sheriff's Office.

According to the Cochise County Sheriff's Office, this year's nominees were chosen based on their contributions to public safety, leadership, and commitment to law enforcement excellence.

Sierra Vista Police Department Det. Jessica Ferrel and Chief Hiser | Photo courtesy the Cochise County Sheriff's Office.

The event took place in Sierra Vista, where the 13 nominees gathered to celebrate their achievements. Cochise County Sheriff Mark Dannels emphasized the importance of recognizing law enforcement professionals and their sacrifices.

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Fort Huachuca Military Police Sgt. Gerald Simmons Jr. and Supervisor Davidson | Photo courtesy the Cochise County Sheriff's Office.

Arizona Congressman Juan Ciscomani congratulated the group via a video feed, thanking the officers and their families for all they do for Arizona and Cochise County.

Cochise County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Nathaniel Bronstein, Sheriff Mark Dannels, and Lt. Gijanto | Photo courtesy the Cochise County Sheriff's Office.

Cochise County's Top Cop Winners

The annual Top Cop ceremony serves as a poignant reminder of the continually evolving landscape and challenges that officers face in maintaining public safety.

This year's nominees included Deputy Miriam Bear from the Tombstone Marshal’s Office, who was recognized for her dedication and service.

Bisbee Police Department Det. Esmerelda Mendoza, Winner of Top Cop 2025 and Chief Cox | Photo courtesy the Cochise County Sheriff's Office.

The top honor went to Detective Esmerelda Mendoza of the Bisbee Police Department, who earned the title of Top Cop at this year's ceremony.

Douglas Police Department Lt. Michael Lomeli and Chief Fullen | Photo courtesy the Cochise County Sheriff's Office.

The 2025 TOP COP ceremony highlights the dedication of Cochise County's law enforcement.

CBP assigned to Homeland Security Investigations Officer Brian R. Valle, Acting ASAC HSI Conover/Supervisory personnel | Photo courtesy the Cochise County Sheriff's Office.

Sources: The Legacy Foundation of SE Arizona | Cochise County Sheriff's Office

Special thanks to Grady Butler, Public Information Officer with the Cochise County Sheriff's Office, for the information supplied in this article. All photos courtesy Cochise County Sheriff's Office. Used with permission.

Huachuca City Police Department Cpl. Kyle Arnett and Chief Berry | Photo courtesy the Cochise County Sheriff's Office.

Tombstone Marshal’s Office Dep. Marshal Miriam Bear, Former Tombstone Marshal Jim Addams (left), and Sgt. Defoor | Photo courtesy the Cochise County Sheriff's Office.