The Shelby County Chamber recognized outstanding first responders at the Annual Public Safety Awards Luncheon on September 24, 2025, held at the Pelham Civic Complex & Ice Arena. Members of the Pelham Police Department and the Pelham Fire Department were among those honored for their dedication and service.
From the Pelham Police Department, Officer Berry, Officer Harnden, Detective Hayakahua, Officer Perkinson, and Officer Rhodes were named Pelham’s Police Officers of the Year.
These officers were recognized for their teamwork, vigilance, and investigative excellence during a complex, multi-jurisdictional case that began in Hoover and extended into Pelham. Their coordinated surveillance and decisive actions led to the arrest of two suspects in possession of more than 5,000 gift cards, 300 of which had been altered, resulting in an estimated $1 million in losses to businesses nationwide.
Thanks to the officers’ thorough work, the case was later adopted by federal law enforcement and the U.S. Secret Service. Their recognition at the Chamber luncheon reflects the very best of the Pelham Police Department and the City of Pelham.