DUBOIS – On Thursday, Clearfield County District Attorney Ryan Sayers announced the recipients of his “Law Enforcement Officer of the Year” and “Civilian of the Year” Awards.
The awards are presented to recognize and honor an officer currently serving in law enforcement, and an individual or organization supporting the “Thin Blue Line” of Clearfield County.
Here’s DA Sayers …
Officer of the Year Awardee – Corporal Ian MacTavish (Pennsylvania State Police, DuBois)
Corporal Ian MacTavish of the Pennsylvania State Police served Clearfield County at the DuBois station from January 2017 until April 2024, when he was promoted to Corporal and reassigned to PSP, Lewis Run. In February of 2023, then-Trooper MacTavish was on routine patrol when he was dispatched to a multi-vehicle accident on Interstate 80 between the DuBois and Penfield exits. Within three minutes of being dispatched, MacTavish arrived on scene and he saw that a commercial vehicle and SUV had collided with the SUV coming to rest in the median. MacTavish was quick to make the proper notifications for EMS while rendering aide to a seventeen year old with critical injuries. MacTavish held up the juvenile’s head upright, kept her airway open, and attempted to keep her conscious until emergency medical services arrived on scene. A doctor informed the DuBois station commander that, in his professional opinion, MacTavish’s actions that day are the only reason that seventeen year old is alive today. However, that was not the end of MacTavish’s involvement because he continued to be in contact with the family to check on the progress that the seventeen year old was making. The family stated that they were grateful for the professionalism and caring attitude that MacTavish displayed throughout the ordeal.
Corporal MacTavish is also involved in his community. He is an active member with the Treasure Lake Church, helps out with the Challenger League in DuBois, and raises funds for the Miracle League of South Hills.
The individual that nominated Corporal MacTavish said, “I feel that MacTavish should be recognized for not only his actions, but his empathetic attitude to this family who experienced a terrifying and life changing event.” DA Sayers added, “the actions of Corporal MacTavish on that day are truly heroic, especially to that family, but it is also important to note the compassion that MacTavish has in handling such a difficult situation. This is why he is deserving of this honor!”
Civilian of the Year Awardee – Priority Media (Sunny 106 & Connect FM in DuBois)
Priority Media, which operates Sunny 106 and Connect FM in DuBois, has been a constant supporter of the local law enforcement community. Priority Media works closely with the DuBois City Police Department, Sandy Township Police Department, and the District Attorney for the “Think! Don’t Drink” yearly campaign. This campaign includes radio commercials and the mock crash for the DuBois Area High School each May. In addition, Connect FM regularly makes time for law enforcement to speak on the air about issues and important topics effecting the local communities. Finally, Priority Media provides breakfast and lunch to the police departments each January 9th for National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day.
“Our law enforcement agencies play a vital role in our communities, and it is important to recognize those persons and businesses that support our men and women of the Thin Blue Line,” said DA Sayers. “Priority Media stands out as such a business for their involvement in connecting law enforcement with the community, and supporting our officers in their mission.”
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