Award Recipient: Lt. Col. John Lehnherr, Kansas Highway Patrol

Award sponsored by Gary Decker, Wealth Alliance Advisory Group, LLC

This award is presented to an outstanding professional who has directly impacted local criminal justice programs and the public at large. 

Lt. Col. John Lehnherr has been a jailer, a sheriff’s deputy, a trooper, a training officer, a union representative, a supervisor, a commander, a leader, and a partner. He joined the Kansas Highway Patrol in 1999 and was appointed to the position of Lieutenant Colonel in 2023. As second in command he brings broad experience across local and state law enforcement, tireless work ethic, and a deep commitment to the men and women of the KHP. His leadership does not stop with law enforcement.

Award Recipient: Detention Deputy Paul Scarpitta, Sedgwick County Sheriff's Office 

Award sponsored by Jeff and Mary Ellen Geoffroy

This award honors either a sworn law enforcement officer or citizen, for acts of uncommon valor.

In April, 2025 Detention Deputy Paul Scarpitta was assigned to the Behavioral Management Unit at the Sedgwick County Jail. During his shift an inmate requested a book, but when Deputy Scarpitta went into the pod to discuss the request, a second inmate threw scalding water from a hot pot all over him. Despite being badly burned and struck in the face, Deputy Scarpitta acted quickly to secure the combative inmate in handcuffs. 

His professional response to a critical situation, although in extreme pain, kept the incident under control.

Award Recipient: Property Crimes and Task Force Commander

This award honors a member of law enforcement who has actively worked to improve the quality of life and safety in the community through programs or projects that proactively strive to prevent crime. 

Award Recipient: doris Vogle

This award honors non-law enforcement members of our community who have actively worked to improve the quality of life and safety in the community through programs or projects that proactively strive to prevent crime. Recipients are recognized for their contributions

Award Recipient: Colby Sandlian

Award sponsored by Anderson Family Investments Honoring Thornton Anderson

This award is presented to an individual or organization that improves the lives of others in the community.

Colby Sandlian is a life-long Wichitan whose generosity has and will continue to impact the lives of thousands of citizens. He has underwritten free Saturdays at the Wichita Art Museum and free Sundays at Cowtown. Dozens of non-profits – in Wichita and around the world – have benefited from Colby’s bigheartedness, including Exploration Place, Wichita Grand Opera, Music Theatre Wichita, Wichita Children’s Home and Botanica. He was the first to “step up” to help the Crime Commission create a Health & Wellness Center for First Responders. 

Award Recipient: Davis-Moore Auto Group

Award sponsored by VitalCore

This award recognizes a community group, organization or individuals whose demonstrated effort(s) have enabled people to come together to address community issues that shape our community’s future and or quality of life.

For more than 70 years Davis-Moore Auto Group has proudly served the Wichita community. They support more than 80 nonprofit organizations throughout the community. Their support for those who protect and serve is unmatched, including active involvement with McConnell Air Force Base, support of Crime Commission activities, and “Salute the Badge” on Channel 12, recognizing outstanding law enforcement achievements.