DERBY— A Vermont State Police trooper from the Derby Barracks has been selected as one of four finalists for the prestigious International Association of Chiefs of Police Trooper of the Year Award.
Trooper Richard Berlandy was nominated for his heroic actions during a July 14, 2024, pursuit and gun battle in Burke with a wanted fugitive from Rhode Island. Following the shootout, Berlandy and fellow troopers provided life-saving medical care to the man who had just attempted to kill them.
“Once everything started to happen, I didn’t have to think about what I needed to do. Everything was reactionary, and I was able to focus on the task at hand. All of my training just instinctually kicked in, helping me and eventually saving my life,” Berlandy said.
The incident began when Rhode Island police notified northern New England law enforcement about Brenden Sackal, an armed and dangerous wanted suspect believed to be in the area. After a pursuit through New Hampshire and into Vermont, Derby Barracks troopers attempted to stop Sackal’s vehicle.
Sackal rammed Berlandy’s cruiser, trapping the trooper inside before emerging with an automatic-type weapon and opening fire. Berlandy and Sgt. Joshua Mikkola returned fire, wounding Sackal.
This marks the second consecutive year a Vermont trooper has been a finalist for the award, which recognizes “bravery, courage, leadership, and professionalism.” The winner will be announced March 20 in Orlando, Florida.
Berlandy has been with the Vermont State Police since 2019, serving his entire career at the Derby Barracks.
