ALPINE COUNTY, Calif. – The Alpine County Sheriff’s Office has recognized Sergeant Giles Van De Hey and Deputy Hannah LoFranco for their extraordinary courage, quick thinking, and decisive actions that saved an individual’s life during a critical emergency response.
On November 3, 2026, Sheriff Taylor Green formally presented both officers with Life-Saving Commendations in recognition of their exceptional service and unwavering commitment to protecting human life.
The commendations stem from an incident in which Sergeant Van De Hey and Deputy LoFranco recognized the immediate and potentially fatal danger, and both officers acted without hesitation. Their rapid assessment, coordinated response, and decisive intervention ultimately saved the individual’s life.
Approximately two weeks following the incident, the individual personally visited the Alpine County Sheriff’s Office to deliver thank-you letters and a gift basket to both officers, expressing heartfelt gratitude for their actions.
“As an organization, it’s incredibly important that we take the time to recognize our employees for the outstanding work they do and celebrate these successes. So much of what our employees do happens behind the scenes or goes unnoticed, and we need to acknowledge those moments and the people behind them,” said green. “I am incredibly proud of both of these individuals, and their actions reflect the very best of the Alpine County Sheriff’s Office and the profession as a whole.”
The actions of Sergeant Van De Hey and Deputy LoFranco exemplify the highest standards of public service and demonstrate the profound impact law enforcement professionals can have on the lives of those they serve.
Alpine County extends its sincere appreciation and congratulations to both officers for their extraordinary service, dedication, and commitment to the safety and well-being of the community.