Governor Kathy Hochul awarded the New York State Police Officer Medal of Honor today to Technical Sergeant Richard W. Albert and Cortland County Sheriff’s Office Captain Anthony Phelps for acts of extraordinary courage and bravery. Sergeant Albert received the 2023 award, and Captain Phelps the 2024 award.
“Each of these officers displayed extraordinary bravery while under lethal threat by armed individuals,” Governor Hochul said. “Their quick thinking and swift action saved lives. It is my honor to recognize their heroism and dedication to public service.”
The ceremony, held during a Public Safety Appreciation Reception at the Executive Mansion, was attended by family members, colleagues, and approximately 200 law enforcement executives from across the state.
Sergeant Richard W. Albert
On June 16, 2023, Sergeant Albert, then a highway patrol trooper, attempted to stop a Honda Pilot traveling 112 mph on Interstate 88 in Schenectady County. As he approached the vehicle, the passenger opened fire, striking Albert’s left shoulder near his heart.
Despite his injury, Albert took cover, radioed for help, returned fire, and pursued the gunman after a tractor-trailer driver blocked the fleeing vehicle. The shooter later died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound in nearby woods.
Captain Anthony Phelps
On January 29, 2024, Captain Phelps, then an investigator sergeant, responded to an eviction warrant in Cortland County where a man was armed with a shotgun. As other officers took cover, Phelps advanced, striking the individual in the leg and ending the threat. He then secured the scene and applied a tourniquet, saving the man’s life.
The Governor’s Police Officer of the Year Award, also known as the Medal of Honor, recognizes officers who demonstrate exceptional bravery and dedication in the line of duty.
Sergeant Albert, a 23-year member of the State Police, is currently assigned to the agency’s Office of Emergency Management in Albany. He is the 12th member of the State Police to receive the Medal of Valor/Governor’s Police Officer of the Year Award. Captain Phelps joined the Cortland County’s Sheriff’s Office in 2007 and was promoted to Road Patrol Captain last year. He is the first member of the Cortland County Sheriff’s Office to receive the award.
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