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At the Beyond the Badge Awards in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, 13 law enforcement officers were recognized for their acts of kindness beyond ordinary duties throughout the 2024 calendar year.

Two St. John Parish Sheriff’s officers, Lt. Darlene Cooper and Cpl. Jacqueline Gabriel were honored at the statewide ceremony.

Gabriel had helped a single mother of four children receive the resources she needed, fed them, and lent a hand to a homeless man. She successfully organized a Christmas fundraiser to support a needy family with four children. 

Through her efforts, Cpl Gabriel raised around $1,000. These funds provided essential support and holiday cheer, which her efforts made possible. Her empathy and kindness extend beyond her professional life, as demonstrated by her selfless act of helping an elderly man transition from homelessness to stability.

Jacqueline ensured he had a safe place to eat, sleep, and shower, eventually helping him find a more permanent living situation. She has extensively worked with juveniles in the school system, focusing on encouragement and attentive listening.

Lt. Cooper was also recognized at the awards, helped a mom and her kids transition from sleeping in a car to a home. She connected with a local nonprofit, and together, they found the woman a house in a nearby parish where she could stay rent-free for 30 days to gather her resources.

During that time, and for several weeks beyond, Lt. Cooper checked in with the family, bringing them food and helping with clothing and other necessities. 

“At a time when there is so much negative attention directed at law enforcement, I felt someone needed to honor all the officers who go above and beyond the call of duty. We must inform the public about their acts of kindness and generosity,” said Linda Hull, founder of Beyond the Badge. 

The ceremony, organized by the nonprofit Beyond the Badge, recognized officers for acts of kindness in their communities.

One recipient, Captain Bobbie O’Bryan of the Houma Police Department, was presented with the Beyond the Badge Service Before Self award. The Service Before Self award is given to the officer whose act of kindness stands out among the nominees.

Beyond the Badge was incorporated in April 2016 and is operated entirely by citizen volunteers and funded by corporate and private donations.  “We have no paid staff and no office space, so every penny donated to Beyond the Badge goes directly into the project,” Hull said.