The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF) has named Officer Alec Iurato of the Bristol (CT) Police Department as the Officer of the Month for December 2022. Officer Iurator is being honored for returning fire at an armed suspect who shot and killed two of his fellow officers.

Late in the evening of Oct. 12, 2022, Lieutenant Dustin DeMonte, Sergeant Alex Hamzy and Officer Alec Iurato responded to a possible domestic violence incident. After arriving on the scene, the officers began speaking with a man inside the home and asked him to step out to talk with them. Without warning, the officers began taking heavy gunfire. The suspect, fired more than 80 rounds at the officers, striking all three, and ultimately killing Lt DeMonte and Sgt Hamzy. Despite being wounded himself, Iurato maintained his composure and moved to a position of cover. He was then able to determine the suspect’s position and returned fire, striking and killing the armed suspect. 

The ongoing investigation, as reported by Chief of Police Brian Gould, suggests the suspect intentionally fabricated the report of domestic violence in an effort to purposefully lure and target law enforcement officers. “This incident serves to highlight both the dangers associated with law enforcement and the increasing number of incidents where officers are specifically targeted for violence,” NLEOMF said.

“The heroic actions of Officer Iurato exemplify both the incredible danger inherent to the profession and the amazing heroism which is often exhibited by those who perform this selfless work,” said Marcia Ferranto, CEO of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. “We are proud to honor Officer Alec Iurato as our Officer of the Month for December 2022.” 

The Officer of the Month Award Program is sponsored by the Police Unity Tour and recognizes federal, state, and local officers who distinguish themselves through exemplary law enforcement service and devotion to duty.