Senate Resolution No. 1555

BY: Senator O'MARA

HONORING Investigator Michael Theetge of the
Chemung County Sheriff's Office upon the occasion of
his designation as recipient of the Order of the
Blue Heart Award from Wounded Blue

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to honor and
commend outstanding law enforcement professionals whose courage,
leadership, and commitment to public safety reflect the highest ideals
of service to their community and the people of the State of New York;
and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Investigator Michael Theetge of the Chemung County Sheriff's Office upon
the occasion of his designation as recipient of the Order of the Blue
Heart Award from Wounded Blue, the only national organization dedicated
to supporting law enforcement officers injured or disabled on the job;
and

WHEREAS, Investigator Michael Theetge has served with distinction
for more than 14 years with the Chemung County Sheriff's Office, where
he currently serves in the Criminal Investigation Division and has
dedicated his career to protecting and serving the residents of Chemung
County; and

WHEREAS, Investigator Michael Theetge was slated for promotion to
Sergeant in the Criminal Investigation Division in June 2024 in
recognition of his exemplary service, dedication, leadership, and
professionalism; however, this promotion was postponed after he
sustained a severe on-duty injury on March 29, 2024, while attempting to
apprehend a suspect, an incident from which he is courageously
recovering and working toward returning to duty; and

WHEREAS, During the pursuit that led to his injury, Investigator
Michael Theetge suffered a fractured skull and brain bleeding, requiring
an extended period of hospitalization and rehabilitation, including
transferring to a specialized medical facility and continuing
out-patient therapy as he has worked diligently to regain his health;
and

WHEREAS, Despite the long and difficult road of recovery,
Investigator Michael Theetge has shared that his goal from the beginning
of his rehabilitation has been to return to his work and serve his
community again, demonstrating his resilience and unwavering commitment
to public safety and the responsibilities of his career; and

WHEREAS, Beyond his duties in the Criminal Investigation Division,
Investigator Michael Theetge has long served as commander of the Chemung
County SWAT Team, providing critical leadership for high-risk operations
and ensuring the team's preparedness and effectiveness; and

WHEREAS, This esteemed honoree, Investigator Michael Theetge, has
also served as an instructor for 'Firearms,' 'RBT,' and 'General Topics'

courses, playing a central role in training members of the Sheriff's
Office and helping develop in-service training that advances the
professionalism of the entire agency; and

WHEREAS, Investigator Michael Theetge was the first drug recognition
expert in his department and was recognized for earning the highest
grade point average in his training, demonstrating his commitment to
excellence and advanced skill in identifying impaired drivers; and

WHEREAS, A member of the New York State Threat Assessment Management
System (TAMS) team, Investigator Michael Theetge regularly conducts
threat assessments for schools and local businesses to enhance community
safety; and

WHEREAS, Investigator Michael Theetge serves with distinction as
president of the Deputy Sheriff's Union, a position he was elected to by
his peers, reflecting the profound respect and confidence that fellow
deputies place in his leadership and judgment; and

WHEREAS, Respected by all members of the agency, including
supervisors who frequently seek his counsel, Investigator Michael
Theetge exemplifies the values of integrity, professionalism, and
selfless service; and

WHEREAS, Through his courageous service, steadfast leadership, and
ongoing recovery, Investigator Michael Theetge has made an enduring
impact on the Chemung County Sheriff's Office, his community, and the
people of this great State; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor and commend Investigator Michael Theetge for his exemplary
service, leadership, and dedication to public safety, and to extend to
him best wishes for continued progress in his recovery and future
service; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Investigator Michael Theetge as an enduring token of the
respect and gratitude of this Legislative Body.