[Bellefonte, PA] Each year the Centre County District Attorney’s Office receives nominations
from the public, law enforcement and government agencies of individuals to be recognized for
their exceptional work in law enforcement, above and beyond the call of duty. The nominees
represent a snapshot of the work that police do in our community every day. The nominees for
2025 are as follows:

Trooper Jonathan Hodges – Pennsylvania State Police

Trooper Jonathan Hodges of PSP’s Rockview Barracks transitioned into the criminal
investigations unit and quickly established himself as a dependable investigator on some of the
agency’s most complex and demanding cases. He is known for a steady work ethic and a
collaborative approach that strengthens coordination across units and agencies. Trooper Hodges
is particularly noted for his ability to engage with victims and witnesses in a way that builds trust
and supports accurate, thorough reporting of facts. His follow-through and attention to detail
have proven essential in moving difficult investigations forward. Across all assignments, he
consistently demonstrates professionalism, sound judgment, and respect for those involved,
reflecting the standards expected of the award.

Detective Lisa Larkin – Bellefonte Police Department

Detective Lisa Larkin of Bellefonte is relatively new to her department, but has already made a
remarkable impact on the community through her investigative skills and dedication. She is
recognized for her ability to elevate those around her and her capacity to remain deliberate and
composed in unpredictable or high-pressure situations. Her work reflects a consistent balance of
fairness and determination, ensuring that each investigation is handled thoroughly and without
bias. Perhaps most significantly, she treats every individual she encounters with unwavering
dignity, compassion, and respect. Detective Larkin’s work on challenging and sensitive cases
routinely leads to productive outcomes grounded in thorough investigation, careful attention to
detail, and a deep understanding of the human consequences in each case.

Humane Society Officer Mark Rusnak

Humane Society Officer Mark Rusnak has demonstrated exceptional professionalism,
compassion, and dedication in the protection and welfare of animals within our community. As
the first individual to hold this position while also serving as a County Sheriff, Officer Rusnak
has taken on this additional responsibility with remarkable commitment and leadership. Through
tireless investigative work, strong community engagement, and an unwavering commitment to
humane treatment, Officer Rusnak has consistently gone above and beyond in carrying out the
mission of animal protection and public safety. He approaches every case with integrity and
empathy, earning the respect of colleagues, partner agencies, and the public alike.

Sergeant Elijah Vardzel – Patton Township Police Department

Sergeant Vardzel is nominated for his dedication and drive to ensure that projects affecting all of
Centre County, not just Patton Township, exist and are implemented. Sgt. Vardzel is part of the
Centre County Crash Reconstruction Team and has ensured that the team has proper training,
equipment and personnel to provide crash reconstruction services to local police agencies
throughout Centre County. He has also been instrumental in the beginning of the Centre County
Internet Crimes Against Children Taskforce. This taskforce will coordinate with the Delaware
County District Attorney’s Office, which receives tips from the federal government of child
pornography being transmitted to computers in Centre County. Although just beginning, this
taskforce will again ensure that local police agencies have information, support and tools to be
notified of these internet tips and subsequently investigate and prosecute those crimes.