Officer Zacharie Perez
Each
year the Theodore Roosevelt Association recognizes a Dallas Police
Officer who has overcome a life threatening injury, illness, or other
overwhelming obstacles and who demonstrates exceptional courage,
determination, and perseverance while overcoming adversity and
ultimately returning to serve with the department.
This year, Officer Zacharie Perez has been awarded the 20th Annual Theodore Roosevelt Award
On August 20, 2017, Officer Zacharie Perez, a four-year officer of the
Dallas Police Department, was involved in a major accident while
responding to a call for service. The driver of the other vehicle was
subsequently charged with Driving While Intoxicated.
Due to the accident, Officer Perez sustained a series of injuries which
included; four skull fractures, a brain hemorrhage, a concussion, and
multiple abrasions. Officer Perez also suffered short-term memory loss
and loss of cognitive skills from his head injuries. Officer Perez was
released from the hospital several days after being admitted. Officer
Perez began cognitive and physical therapy soon after the accident and
worked diligently so that he could return to work earlier than expected.
In early December of 2017, Officer Perez returned to full duty at the
Northeast Patrol Division. His ability to return to work after such a
devastating accident has earned him the respect and admiration of his
fellow officers. Officer Perez continues to perform his job at an
exceptional level following a remarkable recovery.