Oct 25, 2025
LVMPD Foundation News
Las Vegas, October 24, 2025 – The LVMPD Foundation hosted its 12th Annual “Sheriff Salutes the Best of the Badge” Gala Friday night at the Wynn Hotel. Each year, the event honors officers for distinguishing themselves in the line of duty. These brave men and women are dedicated to saving lives as they face their own mortality, and their dramatic and harrowing stories earn the top officers a commendation. Among these are: Sheriff’s Honors Awards, the Medal of Valor, the Unit Medal of Valor, the Preservation of Life Award, the Medal of Honor, and the Purple Heart Award.
In his welcome address to attendees, Sheriff McMahill emphasized that the Best of the Badge Gala is one of his favorite events of the year. “No one goes into law enforcement for the accolades or awards, but every day we see examples of our men and women going above and beyond to protect this community,” he said. “Tonight, we honor the best of the best.” Recognizing the tremendous measures officers take to de-escalate dangerous situations and preserve life, McMahill presented honorees with their well-deserved medals.
Countless moments from the evening deeply impacted the audience, including an “In Memoriam” tribute to Sergeant Justin Williams, who, in July, died suddenly after a short battle with leukemia. An accomplished talent, Sgt. Williams was the featured singer of the National Anthem at last year’s Gala. To honor his memory, the videotaped performance was again showcased at this year’s event.
Another notable highlight of the evening came when the Unit Medal of Valor Award was bestowed upon a large group of officers who responded to the UNLV shooting on December 6, 2023. Among multiple victims, Professor Daraboth “Bot” Rith was shot ten times on that fateful day. Miraculously, after being in a medically-induced coma for two weeks and spending months recovering in the hospital, Rith is back to teaching classes. Professor Rith was in attendance at the Gala and gave an emotional speech, expressing gratitude to LVMPD Officers Jake Noriega and Ty Vesperas for saving his life.
The LVMPD Foundation hosts the Best of the Badge Gala each year to shine a light on the extraordinary men and women of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department and the partnerships that make Southern Nevada safer and stronger. “This evening is possible thanks to the generosity of our donors, sponsors, and supporters,” said Karen Marben, LVMPD Foundation Executive Director. She thanked community partners like Antonio Accornero, whose collaboration and steadfast support make it possible to expand programs that benefit both the officers and the community. Funds raised from the Best of the Badge Gala directly support community safety programs and advanced officer training, and help to procure essential crime-fighting equipment and technology. Support from civic-minded business leaders like Accornero enables officers to better protect communities and reduce crime across Clark County, making the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department one of the best law enforcement agencies in the nation!
Antonio Accornero’s generous contributions over the years have helped to fund many initiatives, such as community engagement and public safety programs. As a staunch proponent of making the city of Las Vegas safer for everyone, Mr. Accornero is committed to continuing his support of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. For more information about how to get involved, please visit https://lvmpdfoundation.org