08/27/2026
Orange Detective Denny Peterson and Woodbridge Sergeant Michael Blume Named "2026 Police Officers of the Year."
Both will be honored at the Amity Chamber of Commerce Community Awards and Annual Meeting as each town’s Police Officer of the Year.
Chosen by the leadership teams of the Orange Police and Woodbridge Police Departments, Detective Peterson and Sergeant Blume will receive their awards for outstanding service to their respective communities on September 17th at the Courtyard by Marriott, 136 Marsh Hill Road, Orange.
Orange Police Chief Robert Gagne and Woodbridge Police Chief Ronald E. Smith will present the Amity Chamber of Commerce awards. Members of both departments, local officials, Chamber members, their families, friends, and the general public will be attending.
Detective Peterson (pictured left) has faithfully served the Orange Police Department for nearly twelve years and, according to Gagne, "stood out from his first recruitment interview." Peterson's attention to detail and precision, coupled with his ability to learn and effectively utilize new skills to investigate and provide training to newly appointed officers, has served the department and community well.
Detective Peterson is the Commander of the department's Honor Guard, and also a member of a specialized team that investigates major motor vehicle accidents. He also volunteers his time to charity, serving as a coordinator for Connecticut Special Olympics events.
Chief Gagne said, “Throughout his successes, Detective Peterson has always conducted himself with humility. He continually strives to build relationships, both internally and externally, and is an epitome of the values articulated in the Department’s mission statement: “To protect life and property and to serve the public, always with integrity and professionalism, striving to achieve an atmosphere of mutual respect, trust, and cooperation.”
Sergeant Blume (pictured right) has demonstrated a commitment to leadership, professional development, training, and service over the course of his twenty-four years with the Woodbridge Police Department. From patrol officer and narcotics investigator to patrol supervisor and administrative sergeant, he has continually taken on additional responsibilities while remaining dedicated to his fellow officers and the community he serves.
Serving as Administrative Sergeant, Blume oversees the department's Training Unit, coordinating and managing training and certification requirements for department personnel. He is also a department instructor and is certified to instruct officers in Use of Force and Body-Worn Camera operations. He is also a member of the Woodbridge Police Department Bicycle Unit, participating in community events, patrol operations, and other assignments requiring bicycle deployment.
Throughout his career, Sergeant Blume has been recognized for his actions in significant and challenging incidents. He received a Certificate of Commendation for his role in helping bring an end to a police pursuit involving a report of an abduction. Sergeant Blume has also been recognized with a Life Saving Award.
Woodbridge Chief of Police, Ronald E. Smith noted, “Sergeant Blume’s career reflects a commitment to law enforcement, leadership, and service, as well as a willingness to step forward when his training, experience, and leadership are needed most.”
Admission to the Amity Chamber Community Awards & Annual Meeting program includes a hot buffet breakfast Click this link to purchase tickets. Tickets will not be available at the door. https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/kxjz86g
Woodbridge Connecticut Police Department Town of Orange, Connecticut, Police Department Town of Orange CT Woodbridge, CT
