Three officers from the Zion Police Department have been awarded the Illinois Law Enforcement Medal of Honor Award for their actions to disarm a suicidal subject at a fast-food restaurant in 2025.
Officers Tai M. Coggins, Daniel J. Jeffery and Haley N. Pacholsky were three of 19 officers from around the state of Illinois to receive the Illinois Law Enforcement Medal of Honor Award from Gov. J.B. Pritzker, Illinois State Police (ISP) Director Brendan F. Kelly and the Law Enforcement Medal of Honor Committee.
The Medal of Honor is awarded to officers who have been killed or seriously injured in the line of duty, or who have displayed exceptional bravery or heroism while performing their duties as a law enforcement officer, authorities said.
“These officers showed exceptional courage in the face of danger, and that courage saved lives. As we honor Illinois’ bravest, our hearts are with the families, friends, and loved ones of the fallen and injured officers who put themselves on the line to protect their fellow Illinoisans,” Pritzker said. “While the depth of their sacrifice can never be repaid in full, may this recognition serve as a reminder from the People of Illinois of our endless gratitude for their service.”
Authorities said Coggins, Jeffrey and Pacholsky were dispatched to a fast food restaurant for a man reported to be making suicidal threats and believed to be armed with a handgun on March 26, 2025
The three officers entered the restaurant and observed the subject, who pulled out a handgun as he attempted to leave.
Coggins and Pacholsky wrestled with the subject while Jeffery attempted to gain control of the handgun.
The suspect finally released the handgun and was safely taken into custody, authorities said.
“The individuals we honor today have shown extraordinary bravery, discipline, and selflessness,” Kelly said. “May we never forget the weight of their oath, may we never take for granted the peace they protect, and may we live our lives in a way that is worthy of the sacrifice of their lives.”
The Law Enforcement Medal of Honor Committee was established in statute through the Law Enforcement and Fire Fighting Medal of Honor Act in 1990.
Current committee members include Director Kelly, Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board Executive Director Keith Calloway, Chicago Police Department Superintendent Larry Snelling, DeKalb Police Department Chief David Byrd, retired ISP Master Sergeant and St. Clair County Coroner Calvin Dye Sr., Lake County Sheriff John D. Idleburg, and Central Illinois Police Training Center Director Brian Fengel.