Zuniga Named Buffalo Grove Police Officer of the Year

BUFFALO GROVE, IL — Edwin Zuniga was recently named the 2025 Buffalo Grove Police Department Officer of the Year. Fellow Officer Aeden Young also received a Special Commendation Award, with being honored at Monday's Buffalo Grove Village Board meeting for their commitment to the department's mission and their professionalism with the public.

The Police Officer of the Year Award is sponsored and presented annually by the Rotary Club of Buffalo Grove. Recipients are chosen by their peers for their contributions. Rotary Club President Juliet Ziak presented the award on behalf of the organization.

"The Rotary Club of Buffalo Grove is appreciative of the hard work and compassion shown by the men and women of the Buffalo Grove Police Department every day," Ziak said. "We are proud to recognize Officer Zuniga’s outstanding accomplishments by making a charitable contribution in his name."

In recognition of Zuniga's award, the Rotary Club will donate $500. This donation includes $250 to the Rotary International Foundation and $250 to the Wounded Warrior Project, a charity chosen by Zuniga.

Zuniga joined BGPD as an intern in 2022 and was sworn in as a police officer in 2023. His peers recognize him for his knowledge of policework and his approachable demeanor. In 2025, Zuniga responded to 1,271 calls for service and recorded 47 arrests. He led BGPD in seatbelt citations and total citations issued, focusing on traffic safety and enforcement. He also volunteered to fill department vacancies on short notice.

Young received a Special Commendation as runner-up for Officer of the Year. Young began his career with the Buffalo Grove Police Department in 2022 as a Community Service Officer and became a full-time officer in 2024. In 2025, he led BGPD in traffic citations and recorded 46 arrests. Officer Young also received a Life Saving Award and Unit Citation.

"Officer Zuniga and Officer Young are both incredibly deserving of these awards, and I am grateful they are part of our agency," Police Chief Brian Budds said. "Their dedication and recognition today reflect the excellence they will bring to our profession tomorrow."