Hopi Law Enforcement Services Officer Tony Pawasiema received recognition at the U.S. Attorney’s Law Enforcement Awards ceremony on Monday for his bravery in the line of duty.
Officer Pawasiema was acknowledged for his actions during an incident in 2023 when he responded to a burglary call in Sichomovi Village on the Hopi Reservation. During the investigation, he was shot in the chest but managed to return fire, injuring his attacker. Despite being wounded, Officer Pawasiema provided life-saving aid to the shooter until further assistance arrived. Fortunately, he did not suffer serious injuries.
The award ceremony saw attendance from members of Officer Pawasiema's family, colleagues from Hopi Law Enforcement Services (HLES), and tribal leaders.
In his six-year career with HLES, Officer Pawasiema has faced various challenges as one of the few officers covering a large area. He has been shot at multiple times but remains committed to serving the Hopi community.