2024 NRA Officer of the Year Award Winner

On the afternoon of February 23, 2024, Detective Jacob Tri of the Cascade, Montana Sheriff’s Office was on duty and conducting an investigation in Great Falls. As part of the investigation, Detective Tri had a search warrant for the residence, which was owned by a female who was the focus of the investigation.

As Detective Tri was waiting for another deputy to assist him with the search warrant execution, he noticed a male, identified as Mike Hanson, approaching his vehicle. Detective Tri exited his vehicle, as it was apparent that Hanson wanted to talk to him.

Hanson asked Detective Tri why he was there, and Hanson was informed that there was a search warrant for the address. Hanson, who was the boyfriend of the female suspect, was upset that law enforcement was there.

Hanson walked onto the property. Detective Tri ordered him to leave the property, as there was a search warrant for the property.

Hanson continued to walk away after being told to leave the property. Detective Tri jumped the gate and approached Hanson.

As Detective Tri approached, Hanson reached into his pocket in a quick, threatening manner, as if to grab a firearm. Detective Tri reached for his own firearm, when he saw Hanson had drawn a pistol and was raising it to point at Detective Tri.

Detective Tri had drawn his own firearm to defend himself, but his firearm malfunctioned, just as Hanson began to shoot at him. Detective Tri cleared his malfunction and returned fire, just as he was struck in the shoulder by a bullet fired by Hanson.

Detective Tri return fire hit the suspect in his chest and neck, killing the suspect and ending the gunfight.

Detective Tri exhibited exceptional bravery and courage while facing an armed, violent suspect. His actions not only saved his own life but prevented injuries or deaths of others in the area. As such, it is with great honor and pride that the National Rifle Association names Detective Jacob Tri as the 2024 NRA Law Enforcement Officer of the Year.