Tallassee native James Gareth Godwin has been named New Orleans’ First Responder of the Year for 2025. Godwin received the designation at Benedict’s Plantation in Mandeville, La. last November.

“Officer Godwin displayed extraordinary courage and professionalism during a life-threatening encounter with an armed burglary suspect,” the New Orleans Police Department noted in a statement. “His decisive actions prevented harm to residents and led to the suspect’s capture, showing the highest standards of law enforcement.”

During the encounter, Godwin fought with the suspect, not knowing the man was armed with a pistol he had recently stolen. The suspect fired at Godwin five times from close range. Godwin returned fire, wounding the suspect leading to his arrest.

Godwin has been with the New Orleans Police Department for three years.

The event was sponsored by Keesler Federal Credit Union. The 10th annual awards ceremony celebrates first responders for their exemplary service and community outreach efforts.