Prosecutor’s Office honors outstanding police officers

Annual awards recognize excellence in patrol, investigations & community service

The Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office honored three exceptional members of the county’s law enforcement community last Tuesday, Aug. 4, during its annual Officer of the Year Awards, recognizing outstanding service in patrol, investigations, and community engagement.

The awards were presented to Patrol Officer Ezekiel McCarthy of the Westfield Police Department, Detective Michael Morley of the Carmel Police Department, and K-9 Luna and her handler, Sgt. Ben Lugar, of the Noblesville Police Department.

“We are incredibly fortunate to serve alongside some of the finest law enforcement professionals anywhere,” Hamilton County Prosecutor Joshua Kocher said. “This year’s honorees not only stand apart from everyone else, but they exemplify the dedication, courage, and compassion that define our law enforcement partners every day.”

Officer McCarthy was named Patrol Officer of the Year for demonstrating extraordinary courage, decisive action, and an unwavering commitment to public safety. His professionalism, selflessness, and ability to remain calm under pressure exemplify the highest ideals of law enforcement.

Detective Morley received the Detective of the Year award for his work as an FBI Task Force Officer investigating complex financial crimes and crimes against vulnerable adults. As a member of Hamilton County’s Elder Abuse Multidisciplinary Team, Morley’s persistence, thorough investigations, and extensive financial expertise have helped hold offenders accountable while maximizing opportunities to recover stolen funds and restore justice for victims.

K-9 Luna of the Noblesville Police Department is the 2026 K-9 of the Year. She’s a good girl! (Photo provided)

The K-9 of the Year award was presented to K-9 Luna and her handler, Sgt. Ben Lugar of the Noblesville Police Department. Together, they serve as part of NobleACT, an innovative partnership between police, fire, and mental health professionals that connects people in crisis with community resources and helps divert them from the criminal justice system. Luna provides emotional support and therapeutic comfort during crisis responses while also serving as a familiar and reassuring presence throughout the community.