Recipient Of Prestigious Police Award Announced In Greenwich

GREENWICH, CT — The Greenwich Lions Club recently held its annual Dr. John Clarke Police Officer of the Year Award reception in which Det. First Grade Michael Rooney was named the recipient of the prestigious honor for 2024.

The Greenwich Police Department commended Rooney for his "exceptional dedication and skill" exhibited throughout his 21-year career, which includes 11 years as a detective. He was appointed to the rank of Detective First Grade in 2024.

"His commitment to protecting vulnerable populations, particularly through his work in the Special Victims Section (SVS), has set a standard of excellence for his peers. Rooney’s initiative in catching online child predators has been groundbreaking, as he taught himself the intricacies of social media platforms, predator jargon, and teenage communication styles to conduct undercover operations," the GPD said in a news release. "His efforts have led to the arrest and conviction of numerous predators, including high-profile cases involving educators, attorneys, and other professionals."

The department said Rooney, who was appointed as an FBI Task Force Officer in 2022, has earned praise from prosecutors, the FBI Child Exploitation Unit, and federal agents. He has also mentored fellow detectives to further strengthen the department's protocols for predator stings.

"Detective Rooney’s tireless dedication, innovative approach, and ability to collaborate across agencies have made him a true asset to law enforcement," the GPD said. "His work has not only removed dangerous predators from society but has also safeguarded countless children."

Clarke was the founder and first president of the Greenwich Lions and also served as the GPD’s medical adviser as part of his distinguished career, according to First Selectman Fred Camillo's recent community newsletter.