2 named Troopers of the Year

New Jersey State Police Sgts. Marc Nietubyc and Roy Rohel Jr. received the 2024 Trooper of the Year Award.

Rohel and Nietubyc, members of the Technical Emergency and Mission Specialists (T.E.A.M.S.), North Squad, were honored “for their exceptional commitment and professionalism during a well-being check incident involving an individual experiencing a mental health crisis,” said Col. Patrick Callahan, superintendent of the state police.

Both were seriously injured in gunfire after a confrontation with the man they were checking on Jan. 30 at a Branchville motel. He had emerged with a weapon, later identified as an “air rifle,” with an internal suppressor.

Nietubyc and Rohel and other members of the T.E.A.M.S. Unit were assigned to conduct a well-being check on a man experiencing a severe mental health crisis and threatening violence and to hurt himself.

The unit secured the area, evacuated nearby rooms and deploying the Crisis Negotiations Team to contact the man by phone. Despite multiple efforts to communicate, he was uncooperative and hostile, state police said.

T.E.A.M.S. members used a variety of tools, including drones, robots, chemical munitions and a Long-Range Acoustic Device, for several hours. Chemical munitions were deployed in the man’s bathroom.

He then emerged with his weapon drawn.

Nietubyc used two Taser cartridges, which were ineffective, while Rohel used a Mark 9 OC canister, state police said.

“Both troopers displayed extraordinary bravery by leaving their positions of cover to attempt to subdue the suspect, fully aware of the risks involved,” Callahan said.

“Despite their injuries, they continued to demonstrate exceptional determination. While receiving treatment for his wounds, Sergeant Nietubyc demonstrated outstanding situational awareness and unwavering resolve. Recognizing a critical opportunity, he directed the arrest team to breach the suspect’s location, ultimately leading to the suspect’s apprehension.

“Their commitment during this critical incident has undoubtedly made the State of New Jersey safer,” Callahan added. “Sergeant Nietubyc and Sergeant Rohel’s remarkable efforts exemplify the New Jersey State Police’s core values of Honor, Duty and Fidelity.”