HANCOCK, Mich. (WZMQ) – The City of Hancock Police Department has named Officer Ben Galetto the 2025 Police Officer of the Year for Houghton and Keweenaw Counties.
On January 30th, Galetto was honored during the Copper Country Pigs-N-Heat fundraiser hockey game at the MacInnes Student Ice Arena. Galetto joined the City of Hancock Police Department in January 2024 after graduating from the Oakland Community College Police Academy, where he earned the prestigious Top Gun Award. Since joining the department, Galetto’s chief says he has consistently demonstrated exceptional initiative, professionalism, and dedication to service.
“Officer Galetto takes on responsibilities well beyond expectations,” said City of Hancock Police Chief Tami Sleeman. “He works every case thoroughly, prepares detailed and well-articulated search warrants, and is recognized for writing clear, comprehensive, and well-documented reports.”
In July 2025, Officer Galetto received a Life Saving Award for his swift and decisive actions during a medical emergency involving a City of Hancock resident who was unresponsive and not breathing. He immediately initiated CPR, successfully restoring the individual’s vital signs and saving their life. Galetto has developed strong working relationships with local and state law enforcement agencies and maintains a productive partnership with the Upper Peninsula Substance Enforcement Team (UPSET), further strengthening interagency cooperation. He has also earned the role of Field Training Officer, where he mentors and guides new officers entering the department. In addition to his service with the City of Hancock Police Department, Officer Galetto serves in the National Guard Reserves and the City of Hancock Fire Department.
The City of Hancock congratulates Officer Ben Galetto on receiving the 2025 Police Officer of the Year award. Officials say Galetto’s work ethic, lifesaving actions, community impact, and commitment to excellence exemplify what it means to go above and beyond the call of duty.
