U.S. Attorney’s Office Presents Hometown Hero Award to Detective Sergeant Dayerrick Ireland

BANGOR, Maine: U.S. Attorney Andrew B. Benson this morning presented Penobscot County Sheriff's Office Detective Sergeant Dayerrick Ireland with a U.S. Department of Justice/United States Attorney's Office "Hometown Hero Award" during a ceremony held at the United States Attorney's Office in Bangor. Ireland received the award in front of his family and Sheriff's Office command staff.

The Hometown Hero award commemorates the 250^th anniversary of the founding of the United States of America. Every U.S. Attorney in the country chose one recipient of the award, which honors the many contributions local law enforcement officers make to preserving and improving their communities and protecting their fellow citizens. The award honors the enduring ideals of service and civic responsibility and is bestowed in recognition of the brave men and women who exemplify steadfast commitment to these ideals and embody the spirit upon which our nation was founded.

U.S. Attorney Benson noted during his remarks that local law enforcement officers play a vital role in protecting Maine communities but acknowledged that these occupations involve long hours and tremendous sacrifice not only for the officers but for their family and friends.

Detective Sergeant Ireland is currently assigned to the Penobscot County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigation Division and has been with the Sheriff's Office since 2022. In 2025, Det. Sgt. Ireland was selected as a full-time FBI Task Force Officer. During his time with the Sheriff's Office and FBI, he has investigated child sexual assault/child pornography cases, fatal accidents, police-involved shootings, homicides, and many other felony-level crimes. Det. Sgt. Ireland's tireless investigative efforts have led to the arrests and convictions of numerous individuals, both in Maine and in other states, who have engaged in acts of child sexual exploitation. Earlier this year, Det. Sgt. Ireland was recognized at the Maine Sheriffs' Association award dinner as Deputy of the Year.

"The U.S. Attorney's Office is proud to present this award to Dayerrick Ireland, and pleased that he could receive it in the company of his family and colleagues," U.S. Attorney Benson said. "His work on behalf of some of the most vulnerable victims in our communities highlights the difference that one committed public servant can make."

###