Sheriff Nate Neff announced the winners of the 2025 Deputy and Civilain of the Year awards at the Black Hawk County Law Enforcement’s annual Christmas Party. The recipients were once again recognized by the Sunrise Exchange Club at their weekly meeting on February 10.

The 2025 Civilian of the Year was presented to Detention Officer Tessa Joerger. Joerger was described by her peers and supervisors alike as someone who is “dependable, self-motivated, and always willing to go the extra mile.” Joerger can be counted on to come to work every day with a positive attitude and a strong sense of teamwork.

“It isn’t often we bestow this award on someone with less than two years of service, but Tessa earned it with her outstanding performance, professionalism, and rapid growth within the Sheriff’s Office,” said Sheriff Neff.

Detective William “BJ” Heath was awared the 2025 Deputy of the Year. Heath has been with the Sheriff’s Office since 2006 and has previously worked in the jail and patrol divisions. He is currently assigned to investigations where he works a heavy caseload without complaint, including being the lead investigator on a 2025 homocide. Heath is also a member of the Sheriff’s Office’s Negotiations Team where his skills were crucial in peacefully ending a volatile situation in May 2025, when he successfully convinced a barricaded individual armed with a firearm to surrender after a several-hour standoff during which multiple threats were made toward law enforcement.

“BJ’s expertise, calm under pressure, and unwavering commitment to public safety exemplify the highest standards not just of the Sheriff’s Office, but of law enforcement in general. It is my honor to present him with this award,” said Sheriff Neff