Deputy Christopher Culler of the Champaign County Sheriff’s Office received the Exemplary Response Award at the 2025 Law Enforcement Training Symposium, held September 28–30 at Kalahari Resorts & Conventions in Sandusky.
While on patrol on May 30, 2024, Deputy Culler was involved in a dramatic rescue north of Mechanicsburg.
A BMW ran a stop sign and was broadsided by Culler’s cruiser, sending the vehicle into a pond in a nearby yard.
Despite being injured and dazed from the collision, Deputy Culler radioed for help, pulled himself from his disabled cruiser, removed his duty belt, and dove into the pond as the car began sinking.
After several attempts to reach the submerged driver, Culler was joined by U.S. Air Force 1st Lt. Paul Dangelo, a nearby resident who jumped in to help.
Together, they were able to free the driver from the car. Both Culler and the driver were treated for minor injuries.
The rescue was captured on a nearby resident’s surveillance video.
Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost presented the award, noting Culler’s courage, dedication, and quick action in a life-threatening situation.
“Deputies like Chris Culler demonstrate the courage and commitment that keep our communities safe,” Yost said during the awards ceremony.
Champaign County Sheriff Chad Burroughs added, “He’s a top-notch, dedicated public servant.”
