07/24/2026
Congrats to our very own Board President! We’re proud that she devotes so much time to the club and saves lives on the side! 😉 Proud of you Emily!!!
Officer of the Month – May 2026
The Alton Police Department is proud to recognize Lieutenant Emily Hejna as our Officer of the Month for May 2026 for her exceptional leadership, compassion, and crisis intervention during a critical incident.
On May 26, 2026, officers responded to a report of a man experiencing a mental health crisis while possibly armed with a handgun outside a business in downtown Alton. The situation was tense and unpredictable, requiring patience, sound judgment, and a calm approach.
Lieutenant Hejna established communication with the individual by phone and spent approximately 30 minutes building trust and offering hope. Through compassion and outstanding crisis intervention skills, she encouraged him to focus on his family and future, ultimately guiding him to peacefully exit his vehicle.
The individual was safely taken into protective custody without injury, and a handgun was secured. Lieutenant Hejna then ensured he received the mental health care he needed.
Because of Lieutenant Hejna’s professionalism, empathy, and unwavering commitment to preserving life, a situation that could have ended in tragedy instead concluded peacefully. Her actions exemplify the very best of the Alton Police Department.
Please join us in congratulating Lieutenant Emily Hejna on being named Officer of the Month for May 2026!
