2024 Officer Of The Year Named By Stamford Police Association

STAMFORD, CT — Officer Dan Kokkoros has been named the 2024 recipient of the Troy McNamara Memorial Officer of the Year Award by the Stamford Police Association, the SPA announced on Monday.

The annual award, voted on by a committee of previous honorees, is given out each year to the officer "who in all situations has exemplified the total police officer with his inspiration and dedication to all." It is named in honor of fallen officers David Troy and William McNamara.

Kokkoros, who joined the department in June 2016, was selected for his service across multiple divisions and roles within the department, including patrol, narcotics investigations with the department's Narcotics and Organized Crime Squad, and the SPD Bomb Squad.

According to the SPA, Kokkoros has made significant contributions to drug and gun investigations, and has become a key member of the department’s Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) team as a K9 handler.

In 2019, Kokkoros completed the FBI’s Tactical Bomb Technician Course in Huntsville, Ala., becoming the first Stamford officer to do so. He also holds certifications as a Haz-Mat technician.

In 2024, Kokkoros was involved in numerous incidents affecting public safety, the SPA noted, such as responding to suspicious packages, assisting other agencies with EOD support both federally and locally throughout Fairfield County, and providing EOD security for city events like the Thanksgiving Balloon Parade, July Fourth Fireworks Spectacular, and outside summer concert events.

Kokkoros also serves as a Field Training Officer for new recruits and is a member of the department’s Special Response Team.

"Officer Kokkoros’ supervisors have routinely praised his ability to step up in critical situations, while always remaining calm and professional, focused primarily on executing the department’s mission to protect and serve the citizenry of Stamford," the SPA said in a news release. "Officer Kokkoros’ work ethic and dedication to his profession exemplifies what it means to be a police officer."

Kokkoros will be formally recognized at the SPA's annual awards banquet on May 30.