2024 News Release

State Police Announces 2024 Trooper of the Year Award Recipients

West Trenton, N.J. -Today, Colonel Patrick J. Callahan announced that Sergeant Marc Nietubyc and Sergeant Roy Rohel Jr., from the Technical Emergency and Mission Specialists (T.E.A.M.S.), North Squad, are the recipients of the 2024 Trooper of the Year Award for their exceptional commitment and professionalism during a well-being check incident involving an individual experiencing a mental health crisis.

On January 30, 2024, Sergeant Nietubyc and Sergeant Roy Rohel Jr., along with members of the T.E.A.M.S. Unit, were assigned to conduct a critical well-being check at a motel in Branchville Borough, Sussex County. The situation involved an individual experiencing a severe mental health crisis while making threats of self-harm and violence. The individual was armed with a rifle, later identified as an "air rifle" with an internal suppressor and posed an imminent danger to himself and others. The T.E.A.M.S. Unit promptly secured the area by establishing a perimeter, evacuating nearby rooms, and deploying the Crisis Negotiations Team to contact the individual by phone. Despite multiple efforts to communicate, the subject remained uncooperative and hostile.

Over several hours, T.E.A.M.S. members employed a variety of less-than-lethal tools—including drones, robots, chemical munitions, and a Long-Range Acoustic Device—to negotiate a peaceful surrender. As part of a tactical plan, chemical munitions were deployed into the suspect's bathroom. However, the individual emerged with his weapon still drawn. In a courageous act, Sergeant Nietubyc deployed two Taser cartridges, which were ineffective, while Sergeant Roy Rohel utilized a Mark 9 OC canister. Both troopers displayed extraordinary bravery by leaving their positions of cover to attempt to subdue the suspect, fully aware of the risks involved. During the intense confrontation, Sergeant Nietubyc and Sergeant Rohel sustained serious injuries from gunfire. Despite their injuries, they continued to demonstrate exceptional determination. While receiving treatment for his wounds, Sergeant Nietubyc demonstrated outstanding situational awareness and unwavering resolve. Recognizing a critical opportunity, he directed the arrest team to breach the suspect's location, ultimately leading to the suspect's apprehension.

Sergeant Nietubyc and Sergeant Rohel's restraint and dedication deserve the honor of being named "Trooper of the Year." Their commitment during this critical incident has undoubtedly made the State of New Jersey safer. Sergeant Nietubyc and Sergeant Rohel's remarkable efforts exemplify the New Jersey State Police’s core values of Honor, Duty, and Fidelity.

Every year, the New Jersey State Police selects an enlisted member or members to be the recipient of the “Trooper of the Year Award.” Recipients are awarded a red ribbon encased by a gold frame, which is to always be worn on the Class “A” uniform. It is the highest honor a trooper can receive from within the Division. All recipients are honored for their outstanding performances, an honor which reflects great credit upon themselves and the New Jersey State Police.

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